Government Directs States, Union Territories To Ensure Correct Script, Diction for National Anthem and Song
MHA has issued fresh directions to all state governments, Union Territory administrations, and central ministries, ordering strict compliance with the rules governing the singing and playing of the National Anthem and the National Song.
The Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has directed all states, Union Territories and central ministries to strictly adhere to the prescribed script, pronunciation and diction while singing or playing the National Anthem, Jana Gana Mana, and the National Song, Vande Mataram. The fresh communication reiterates existing protocols and seeks uniform compliance across the country to maintain the dignity and integrity of India's national symbols, as reported by TOI.
MHA Reiterates Existing Rules
In its latest directive, the Home Ministry reminded authorities that the National Anthem and National Song must be rendered in their officially approved forms and with correct pronunciation. The ministry asked states and Union Territories to ensure that educational institutions, government departments and public bodies follow the prescribed guidelines during official functions and ceremonies. MHA Designates 23 Individuals Linked to Different Terror Groups as 'terrorists' Under UAPA.
Officials said the move is aimed at promoting uniformity in the performance of the two national symbols and preventing deviations in script or diction that could alter their intended form.
Focus on Correct Pronunciation and Script
The ministry's communication places particular emphasis on accurate pronunciation and the use of approved scripts while rendering the National Anthem and National Song. Authorities have been asked to sensitise institutions and organisers of public events about the established protocols.
The National Anthem, written by Rabindranath Tagore and adopted by the Constituent Assembly in 1950, has an officially prescribed version and duration of approximately 52 seconds. The government has long maintained guidelines governing when and how it should be played or sung. MHA Directs States and Union Territories To Ensure Strict Compliance of Flag Code Ahead of R-Day Celebrations.
Guidelines on National Song Also Highlighted
The directive comes months after the Centre issued detailed guidelines regarding the observance of Vande Mataram, India's National Song. Those guidelines sought to standardise the occasions, sequence and manner in which the song is rendered at official events.
The Home Ministry has stressed that both the National Anthem and National Song should be accorded due respect and performed in accordance with established norms.
Ensuring Uniform Practice Nationwide
Officials indicated that the latest communication is part of an effort to ensure consistent practices across states and Union Territories. The ministry has urged authorities to review compliance with existing rules and take necessary steps to ensure that official events, educational institutions and public functions follow the prescribed standards.
The Ministry of Home Affairs periodically issues instructions related to the observance of national symbols, including the National Anthem and National Song. Existing government guidelines outline the approved text, occasions for performance and standards of conduct associated with these symbols. The latest directive serves as a reminder to states and Union Territories to maintain uniformity and uphold the dignity of these national emblems during public and official events.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 10, 2026 11:28 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).