In a significant push for national integration, the Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has issued a directive making the singing of the official version of ‘Vande Mataram’ mandatory at all government functions. Celebrating the 150th anniversary of Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay’s iconic composition, the MHA has instructed all state governments to ensure that the first six stanzas of the National Song are performed immediately after the National Anthem, ‘Jana Gana Mana.’

The newly issued guidelines specify that the song must be performed during national flag hoisting, cultural events, official functions attended by the President, and civil investiture ceremonies such as the Padma Awards. Notably, this move restores the portions of the song that were truncated during the Congress regime in 1937. The MHA emphasized that whenever ‘Vande Mataram’ is played or sung, the audience must stand as a mark of respect and maintain the decorum associated with national symbols.

The directive also encourages schools to incorporate the collective singing of the National Song before the start of classes. The government aims to foster a sense of discipline and patriotism among citizens through this initiative. While the protocol applies to all major official gatherings, the ministry clarified that playing the song in cinema halls remains non-mandatory. This step reflects the Centre’s commitment to honoring India’s cultural and revolutionary heritage.