Centre revises guidelines for National Anthem, National Song

Shillong, India Jul 11, 2026 ALN: The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has directed all Central government offices and Governors' offices to ensure strict adherence to the prescribed script, text, diction, and pronunciation while singing or playing the National Song and the National Anthem, reiterating the protocols governing their use at official functions across the country.

In a fresh order issued to all central government departments and Governors' offices, the Ministry restated the existing rules governing the occasions on which the National Song and the National Anthem are to be sung or played, while stressing that they must always be rendered with accuracy and due respect. This directive is part of a broader initiative to instill a sense of national pride and adherence to cultural protocols that have been established since the country's independence.

The MHA's recent order contains an exhaustive list of occasions on which the National Song and the National Anthem of India "shall be played or sung" and the occasions on which they "may be sung or played." This clarification is crucial for maintaining uniformity and respect in the presentation of these national symbols, especially in a country as diverse as India, where regional variations and interpretations can sometimes lead to confusion.

The order, dated July 9, stated that the National Song shall be sung during civil investiture ceremonies, on the arrival of the President at formal State functions and other government-organised events, as well as on his departure from such functions. These ceremonies are significant as they represent the formal recognition of individuals who have made notable contributions to the nation or have been appointed to important positions within the government.

It will also be sung immediately before and after the President addresses the nation through All India Radio (AIR) and television. This practice not only underscores the importance of the National Song but also serves to unify the nation during significant moments of communication from its leader.

The order further stated that the National Song shall also be played on the arrival of the Governor or Lieutenant Governor (LG) at formal State functions within their respective states or Union Territories and on their departure from such events. It will also be played when the National Flag is brought on parade, reinforcing the connection between the national identity and the symbols that represent it.

"It is to be noted that while singing or playing the National Song and the National Anthem, their correct script/text and diction/pronunciations should be followed strictly," the order said. This emphasis on accuracy is essential to ensure that the integrity of these songs is maintained, as they are not only musical compositions but also representations of the country's values and aspirations.

The Ministry added that the correct text and pronunciation guide for both the National Song and the National Anthem have been made available on its official website for reference. This move aims to provide clarity and accessibility to all citizens, ensuring that they can participate in national celebrations and observances with the correct knowledge and respect.

The order further stated that the National Song may also be played on any other occasion for which special instructions are issued by the Government of India. This flexibility allows for the National Song to be integrated into various cultural and ceremonial events, thereby fostering a deeper connection between the citizens and their national identity.

The MHA also clarified the protocol to be followed in states where a State Song is performed alongside the National Song and the National Anthem. "In some of the States, State Song is also sung and played along with National Anthem/National Song. It is stated that whenever State Song is sung or played with National Song/National Anthem, both the National Song and National Anthem shall be sung or played together; and National Song will be sung or played first, followed by National Anthem," the order said. This protocol ensures a structured approach to the performance of national and state symbols, which is particularly important in a federal structure like India’s, where multiple identities coexist harmoniously.

The Ministry also referred to its earlier order dated January 28, which laid down the first detailed protocols for singing the National Song. Under those guidelines, the six-stanza official version of the National Song, with a duration of approximately three minutes and ten seconds, is to be sung at official ceremonies such as the arrival of the President, the unfurling of the National Flag, and speeches delivered by Governors. This detailed approach underlines the importance of the National Song in official proceedings and its role in enhancing the ceremonial aspect of governance.

"When the National Song and the National Anthem are sung or played, National Song will be sung or played first," the earlier order stated. This hierarchy reflects the historical significance of both songs and their roles in the national consciousness. It is also a reminder of the sacrifices made during the independence struggle, as both songs have deep-rooted connections to the nation’s journey towards freedom.

It further specified that everyone present in the assembly where the National Song is sung shall stand in attention as a mark of respect. This practice is a manifestation of the reverence that the nation holds for its symbols and is an essential part of the collective experience during national observances.

The Central government is currently observing the 150th year of 'Vande Mataram', and the Ministry reiterated that while it is not possible to prepare an exhaustive list of occasions 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. "It is not possible to give an exhaustive list of occasions on which the singing (as distinct from playing) of the official version of the National Song can be permitted. But there is no objection to the singing of the National Song accompanied by mass singing so long as it is done with due respect as a salutation to the motherland and proper decorum is maintained," the order stated. This acknowledgment of the song's cultural significance allows for its inclusion in various community events, celebrations, and gatherings, fostering a spirit of unity and patriotism among citizens.

The resolution adopted by the Constituent Assembly on January 24, 1950, under which the composition consisting of the words and music known as 'Jana Gana Mana' was adopted as the National Anthem of India, subject to such alterations in the words as may be authorised by the government whenever required. This historical context is crucial in understanding the importance of the National Anthem, as it was officially recognized in the early years of the republic, symbolizing the aspirations and unity of the diverse Indian populace.

The song 'Vande Mataram', which played a historic role in India's freedom struggle, was accorded equal honour and status alongside 'Jana Gana Mana' by the Constituent Assembly. This dual recognition highlights the significant cultural and historical impact that both songs have had on the Indian identity and the collective memory of the nation. The emphasis on their proper rendition in official functions serves to reinforce the values of respect, unity, and national pride that are essential in a diverse society like India.