New Delhi, July 11: The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has issued fresh directions to all Central government departments and Governors’ offices, reiterating the protocols for singing and playing the National Anthem and the National Song, while emphasizing strict adherence to the prescribed script, text, diction and pronunciation during official functions.
In an order dated July 9, the Ministry restated the existing rules governing the occasions on which the National Anthem and National Song are to be performed, stressing that they must always be rendered with accuracy, dignity and due respect.
According to the Ministry, the order provides a detailed list of occasions when the National Anthem and the National Song must be sung or played, as well as circumstances where they may be performed.
The Ministry also directed all government offices to ensure that the officially prescribed versions are followed without deviation.
As per the guidelines, the National Song, “Vande Mataram,” shall be sung or played during:
- Civil investiture ceremonies.
- Arrival and departure of the President at formal State functions and government-organised events.
- Immediately before and after the President’s address to the nation through All India Radio (AIR) and television.
- Arrival and departure of Governors or Lieutenant Governors at formal State functions within their respective States or Union Territories.
- Ceremonial occasions when the National Flag is brought on parade.
The Ministry added that the National Song may also be played on other occasions if specifically directed by the Government of India.
The MHA directed that while rendering both the National Anthem and the National Song, authorities must strictly follow the approved:
- Script
- Text
- Diction
- Pronunciation
The Ministry said the officially approved text and pronunciation guides are available on its website for reference.
The Ministry also clarified the procedure in States where a State Song is performed along with the National Song and National Anthem.
According to the order:
- The National Song should be rendered first.
- It should be followed by the National Anthem.
- The State Song may then be performed in accordance with established protocol.
The order also referred to the Ministry’s earlier notification issued on January 28, which laid down detailed protocols for the National Song.
Under those guidelines:
- The official six-stanza version of Vande Mataram, lasting approximately 3 minutes and 10 seconds, is prescribed for official ceremonies.
- Everyone present must stand at attention while the National Song is being sung as a mark of respect.
The Centre noted that India is currently commemorating the 150th year of “Vande Mataram.” The Ministry reiterated that while it is not possible to list every occasion on which the National Song may be sung, there is no objection to its performance, including mass singing, provided it is rendered with due respect and proper decorum.
The MHA also recalled the Constituent Assembly Resolution of January 24, 1950, which adopted “Jana Gana Mana” as India’s National Anthem while according “Vande Mataram” equal honour and status in recognition of its historic role in the country’s freedom movement.Now you can get the latest stories from Indtoday on Telegram every day. Click the link to subscribe. Click to follow Indtoday’s Facebook page, Twitter, and Instagram. For all the latest Hyderabad News updates and Follow us on GoogleNews
