The Central Government has issued new official guidelines regarding ‘Vande Mataram’. These orders have been implemented through a government notification issued on January 28, 2026. The objective of these guidelines is to set clear rules for the singing and presentation of the National Song, just as it has been determined for the National Anthem.
According to the new guidelines, priority will now be given to singing or playing all six stanzas (6 stanzas) of ‘Vande Mataram’ in any government or formal event. Previously, only the first two stanzas were sung, but the new instructions recognize the full extended version of the song. Although it has been clarified that the format of the presentation can be decided according to practical circumstances, officially the entire song will be considered the standard form. Now, in special government programs, the singing or playing of all six verses of ‘Vande Mataram’ will be mandatory, for which a total duration of 3 minutes 10 seconds has been set.
If both ‘Vande Mataram’ and ‘Jana Gana Mana’ are presented in a program, it has now been formally decided that ‘Vande Mataram’ will be presented first, followed by the National Anthem ‘Jana Gana Mana’. This order has been implemented to maintain uniformity in programs.
Under the rules of respect and etiquette, it has been directed that all persons present during the singing or playing of ‘Vande Mataram’ must stand respectfully. This arrangement is in line with the protocol adopted during the National Anthem, to ensure equal respect for the National Song.
On the occasion of hoisting the Tricolour, ‘Vande Mataram’ will be played at the arrival of the President in official programs and before and after their address to the nation. Similarly, it will be played before and after the arrival and speeches of Governors. Apart from this, it will be mandatory to play ‘Vande Mataram’ in civilian award ceremonies like Padma Awards or any such program where the President is present.
Where will these guidelines apply?
These guidelines will mainly apply to government ceremonies, national and state-level events, official programs of educational institutions, and other programs related to government protocols. Although this is not a penal law, it is an administrative arrangement set for compliance in government programs.
