The Central government has issued new guidelines asking states and government organisations to play “Vande Mataram” before the national anthem, Jana Gana Mana. The guidelines were uploaded on the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) website on February 6, 2026, but no formal announcement or press statement was made.
According to the instructions, whenever the official version of Vande Mataram, which is about 3 minutes and 10 seconds long, is played or sung, the audience must stand to attention as a mark of respect. The guideline applies to official functions, public events and government gatherings.
Officials said this is part of an effort to promote national pride and respect for patriotic songs. The move is seen as a formal way to include Vande Mataram in official ceremonies across India, alongside the national anthem.
