Centre Issues Uniform Protocol for Singing Vande Mataram at Official and Public Events

New Delhi, February 12, 2026 – The Ministry of Home Affairs has released detailed guidelines for the rendition of the national song ‘Vande Mataram’ at government functions and public events to ensure uniformity, dignity, and respect.

The protocol specifies that the song should be sung on important national occasions, including Independence Day, Republic Day, and other significant government and public programmes. It may be rendered either in full or limited to the first two stanzas, with strict time limits: the first stanza must not exceed 52 seconds, and the first two stanzas should be completed within 65 seconds.

All persons present are required to stand in attention while the song is being sung, and it should be performed in chorus with proper dignity. On certain occasions, Vande Mataram may be sung along with the National Anthem, Jana Gana Mana.

The guidelines emphasise that the national song holds equal status and respect as the National Anthem and should be accorded the same reverence. The directive aims to standardise its presentation across official platforms and prevent any deviation that could undermine its sanctity.

The Ministry has urged all concerned authorities to strictly adhere to these instructions to maintain the honour of the national song, which has been a symbol of India’s freedom struggle and patriotic sentiment since its adoption.