MHA Guidelines on Vande Mataram (National Song) – Order of Rendition, Conduct & Mandated Occasions | Applicable to Odisha Govt Employees & All State Institutions
%20%E2%80%93%20Order%20of%20Rendition,%20Conduct%20&%20Mandated%20Occasions.webp)
MHA Guidelines on National Song Vande Mataram – Order, Conduct & Mandated Occasions
Issued by: Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India
Key Period: January & February 2026 (150th anniversary year of Vande Mataram)
Published: February 2026 Applicable to: All State Government employees, institutions, schools, official functions & public events in Odisha & across India
The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has issued detailed protocols standardizing the ceremonial status of Vande Mataram (National Song) alongside the National Anthem Jana Gana Mana. These guidelines are applicable to all State Government employees, departments, schools, public functions, and institutions in Odisha.
The National Song is to be accorded the same level of respect and decorum as the National Anthem in official and ceremonial settings.
1. Order of Rendition
- When both are performed together at an event, Vande Mataram must be played/sung first, followed by the National Anthem.
- Full version of Vande Mataram now includes all six stanzas (restoring previously omitted verses).
- Approximate duration of full rendition: 3 minutes 10 seconds.
2. Audience Conduct & Posture
- Standing to attention is mandatory when the official version of Vande Mataram is played or sung.
- Exception: No need to stand if the song is played in newsreels, documentaries, or films (to avoid disorder in cinemas/theatres).
3. Mandated Occasions for Vande Mataram
The National Song is required during:- Arrival and departure of the President at State functions
- Before and after Presidential addresses
- Arrival and departure of Governors / Lieutenant Governors at State functions
- Ceremonial flag events
- Government civil award ceremonies
4. Schools & Public Participation
- Schools are encouraged/mandated to start the day with community singing of Vande Mataram.
- Mass singing is supported at public functions; organizers should provide lyrics and sound systems for audience participation.
5. Comparison with National Anthem Protocol
- National Anthem (Jana Gana Mana): Full version ~52 seconds; shorter version ~20 seconds for specific occasions.
- Legal Protection: While the National Anthem is protected under the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971, these new guidelines bring the decorum and respect for Vande Mataram closer to that of the Anthem.
Important for Odisha Govt Employees & Institutions: These MHA guidelines are binding on all State Government departments, schools, public functions, and employees in Odisha. Non-compliance with standing posture, order of rendition, or mandated occasions may attract attention under disciplinary rules.
📄 Official MHA Guidelines / Circular (PDF): View / Download
WhatsApp Telegram Facebook PDFFrequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the correct order when both Vande Mataram and National Anthem are played?
Vande Mataram must be played/sung first, followed by the National Anthem (Jana Gana Mana).
2. What is the last date or timeline for following these Vande Mataram guidelines?
The guidelines were issued in January-February 2026 and are effective immediately. All State Government functions, schools, and employees in Odisha must comply from now onwards.
3. Is standing mandatory when Vande Mataram is played?
Yes – standing to attention is mandatory during the official version. Exception applies only for newsreels, documentaries, or films.
4. Are schools in Odisha required to sing Vande Mataram?
Schools are strongly encouraged/mandated to start the day with community singing of Vande Mataram as per MHA guidelines.
5. Do these guidelines apply to Odisha Government employees and institutions?
Yes – these MHA protocols are binding on all State Government departments, employees, schools, public functions, and institutions in Odisha and across India.