Center’s new guidelines on ‘Vande Mataram’ released, now it will be sung with respect in an interval of 3 minutes 10 seconds.

digital desk- The Central Government has issued new official guidelines regarding the national song ‘Vande Mataram’. These instructions have been implemented through a formal government order issued on 28 January 2026. Its objective is to set clear protocols for singing and presentation of the national song, as already prescribed for the national anthem ‘Jana Gana Mana’. According to the new guideline, if ‘Vande Mataram’ is sung or played in any government or official program, its complete six verses (6 stanzas) will be given priority. Until now only the first two verses were usually sung, but the new directive gives official recognition to the original extended form. However, it is also clarified that the form of presentation may be decided as per practical circumstances, but by standard, the entire six differences will be considered as the official version.

Compulsory singing and playing with six official distinctions.

The government has also decided that singing or playing of six official versions of ‘Vande Mataram’ will be mandatory in special government programs, the total duration of which has been fixed at 3 minutes 10 seconds. Its objective is to ensure uniformity and dignity in programs. Under the new system, if both ‘Vande Mataram’ and ‘Jana Gana Mana’ are organized in a function, then ‘Vande Mataram’ will be presented first and then the national anthem ‘Jana Gana Mana’ will be sung. This sequence has now been formally determined so that the same process can be followed in all government programs.

Singing will be done as per protocol

Under respect and etiquette (protocol), instructions have also been issued that all the people present during the singing or playing of ‘Vande Mataram’ will have to stand respectfully, just like they stand during the national anthem. The government says that this step has been taken to ensure equal respect and dignity for the national anthem. Under these guidelines, ‘Vande Mataram’ will be played on many official occasions. These include occasions of hoisting the Tricolor, programs before and after the arrival of the President, before and after the President’s address to the nation, before and after the arrival and speeches of Governors. Apart from this, ‘Vande Mataram’ will also be played at civilian award ceremonies, such as the Padma Award distribution program or other events in which the President is present.

Protocol will be mandatory for all government programs

The government has clarified that these guidelines will mainly apply to government functions, national and state level events, official programs of educational institutions and other government protocol events. This is not a punitive law, but an administrative protocol that will be followed in government programs.