MHA Issues Fresh Directive on National Song and Anthem Protocols
The Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has issued a fresh order to all Central Government and governor offices, reiterating that strict adherence to the correct script, text, diction, and pronunciation must be followed when playing or singing the National Song and the National Anthem of India. The order, dated July 9, emphasizes that the prescribed guidelines are to be observed without exception.
Occasions for Mandatory Performance
The MHA directive provides an exhaustive list of occasions on which the National Song and National Anthem shall be played or sung, as well as occasions when they may be performed. According to the order, the National Song must be sung at civil investitures, upon the arrival and departure of the President at formal State functions and other government-organized events, immediately before and after the President addresses the nation over All India Radio (AIR) and television, and during the arrival and departure of the Governor or Lieutenant Governor at formal State functions within their respective state or Union Territory. It is also required when the National Flag is brought on parade.
Strict Compliance with Correct Text and Pronunciation
The ministry has underscored that while singing or playing the National Song and the National Anthem, their correct script, text, diction, and pronunciations must be strictly followed. The MHA has made the correct text and pronunciation guide available on its official website for reference. The order states that the National Song shall also be played on any other occasion for which special orders are issued by the Government of India.
Sequence When State Song Is Included
In some states, a State Song is also sung and played alongside the National Anthem or National Song. The MHA clarified that whenever a State Song is performed with the National Song or National Anthem, both the National Song and the National Anthem shall be sung or played together, with the National Song being performed first, followed by the National Anthem.
Background and Previous Protocols
This directive builds on an earlier order dated January 28, which established the first set of protocols for singing the National Song. That order specified that six stanzas of the National Song, with a duration of three minutes and ten seconds, shall be sung at official functions such as the arrival of the President, unfurling of the Tricolour, and speeches of governors. The order also stated that when both are performed, the National Song must be sung or played first, and the assembly shall stand in attention during its rendition.
Observance of 150th Year of Vande Mataram
The Centre is currently observing the 150th year of 'Vande Mataram', the National Song. The MHA noted that it is not possible to provide an exhaustive list of occasions for singing the official version of the National Song, but there is no objection to mass singing as long as it is done with due respect and proper decorum as a salutation to the motherland.
Historical Context and Equal Status
In a resolution adopted by the Constituent Assembly on January 24, 1950, it was decided that 'Jana Gana Mana' is the National Anthem of India, subject to any alterations authorized by the government. The song 'Vande Mataram', which played a historic role in the Indian freedom struggle, was accorded equal honour and status with 'Jana Gana Mana'.
