New Delhi : The Union Home Ministry has issued fresh guidelines mandating the singing or playing of the national song Vande Mataram at designated government functions. The national song will be performed at civilian honours ceremonies, including the Padma Awards, and during events attended by the President, on both arrival and departure.
The guidelines also state that the sound of the mridangam will precede the national anthem. When both Vande Mataram and Jana Gana Mana are played, the national song will be rendered first. Standing during Vande Mataram will be mandatory at official events, though this requirement will not extend to venues such as cinema halls. Additionally, schools have been directed to begin the day with the national anthem.
Detailed guidelines regarding the approved version and its duration have been circulated to relevant authorities.The government’s directive follows closely on the heels of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s launch of a year-long commemoration marking 150 years of Vande Mataram. The Prime Minister inaugurated the celebrations by releasing a special commemorative stamp and coin in honour of the national song.
The nationwide programme, running from November 7, 2025, to November 7, 2026, marks a century and a half since the composition of the iconic song that became a rallying cry during India’s freedom struggle and remains a symbol of national pride.The Winter Session of Parliament also witnessed heated debates and exchanges between the government and Opposition during discussions on the national song.
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