NATIONAL FLAG OF INDIA

Title: Tricolour / Tiranga

Colors: Saffron, White and Green; Navy Blue in the Askoka
Chakra
Dimension ratio: 2:3
Material: Khadi Cotton or Silk
Adopted on: July 22, 1947
Designed by: Pingali Venkayya
Manufactured by: Khadi Development and Village Industries
Commission
Mahatma Gandhi said, ‘A flag is a necessity for all nations.
Millions have died for it. It is no doubt a kind of idolatry
which would be a sin to destroy. For, a flag represents
an Ideal.’ The national flag is the banner that imparts a nation
its own unique identity, proclaims to world of its sovereignty,
and announces the principles on which lies the country’s
foundation.
The national
flag of India, colloquially called Tiraṅgā (the tricolour), is a
horizontal rectangular tricolour flag, the colours being of
India saffron, white and India green; with the Ashoka Chakra, a
24-spoke wheel, in navy blue at its centre. It was adopted in its
present form during a meeting of the Constituent Assembly held
on 22 July 1947, and it became the official flag of the Union of
India on 15 August 1947. The flag was subsequently retained as
that of the Republic of India. In India, the term "tricolour" almost
always refers to the Indian national flag.
The current Indian flag was designed by Pingali
Venkayya based on the Swaraj flag, a flag of the Indian
National Congress adopted by Mahatma Gandhi after making
significant modifications to the design proposed by Pingali
Venkayya. This flag included the charkha which was
replaced with the chakra in 1947 by Tyabji.
Before the amendment of the flag code in 2021, the flag was by
law only to be made of khadi; a special type of hand-spun cloth
or silk, made popular by Mahatma Gandhi. The manufacturing
process and specifications for the flag are laid out by the Bureau
of Indian Standards. The right to manufacture the flag is held by
the Khadi Development and Village Industries Commission,
which allocates it to regional groups. As of 2023, there are four
units in India that are licensed to manufacture the flag.
Usage of the flag is governed by the Flag Code of India and
other laws relating to the national emblems. The original code
prohibited use of the flag by private citizens except on national
days such as the Independence day and the Republic Day. In
2002, on hearing an appeal from a private citizen, Naveen Jindal,
the Supreme Court of India directed the Government of India to
amend the code to allow flag usage by private citizens.
Subsequently, the Union Cabinet of India amended the code to
allow limited usage. The code was amended once more in 2005
to allow some additional use including adaptations on certain
forms of clothing. The flag code also governs the protocol of
flying the flag and its use in conjunction with other national and
non-national flags.
Indian Flag, the first stamp of independent India, released on 21
November 1947, was meant for foreign correspondence.
On 14 July 1947, the committee recommended that the flag of
the Indian National Congress be adopted as the National Flag of
India with suitable modifications, so as to make it acceptable to
all parties and communities. It was also resolved that the flag
should not have any communal undertones. The spinning wheel
of the Congress flag was replaced by the Ashoka Chakra from
the Lion Capital of Ashoka. According to Sarvepalli
Radhakrishnan, the chakra was chosen as it was representative
of dharma and law. However, Jawaharlal Nehru explained that
the change was more practical in nature, as unlike the flag with
the spinning wheel, this design would appear symmetrical.
Gandhi was not very pleased by the change, but eventually
came around to accepting it.
The flag was proposed by Nehru at the Constituent Assembly on
22 July 1947 as a horizontal tricolour of deep saffron, white and
dark green in equal proportions, with the Ashoka Chakra in blue
in the centre of the white band. Nehru also presented two flags,
one in Khadi-silk and the other in Khadi-cotton, to the assembly.
The resolution was approved unanimously. It served as
the national flag of the Dominion of India between 15 August
1947 and 26 January 1950, and has served as the flag of
the Republic of India since then.
Design
Specifications
According to the Flag code of India, the Indian flag has a
width:height aspect ratio of 3:2. All three horizontal bands of the
flag (saffron, white and green) are equally sized. The Ashoka
Chakra has twenty-four evenly spaced spokes.
The size of the Ashoka Chakra is not specified in the flag code,
but in section 4.3.1 of "IS1: Manufacturing standards for the
Indian Flag", there is a chart that describes specific sizes of the
flag and the chakra (reproduced alongside).
Sizes of the National Flag
Flag Width and height Diameter of Ashoka
size[27][28] (mm) Chakra (mm)[26]
1 6300 × 4200 1295
2 3600 × 2400 740
3 2700 × 1800 555
4 1800 × 1200 370
5 1350 × 900 280
6 900 × 600 185
7 450 × 300 90[29]
8 225 × 150 40
9 150 × 100 25[29]
Construction Sheets
Flag of India construction sheet

Ashoka Chakra construction sheet

Colours
Both the Flag code and IS1 call for the Ashoka Chakra to be
printed or painted on both sides of the flag in navy blue. Below
is the list of specified shades for all colours used on the national
flag, with the exception of navy blue, from "IS1: Manufacturing
standards for the Indian Flag" as defined in the 1931 CIE Colour
Specifications with illuminant C. The navy blue colour can be
found in the standard IS:1803–1973.

Materials 3.1.2.2: Colours[26]

Brightness,
Colour X Y Z
Percent
India 0.53 0.36 0.10
21.5
saffron 8 0 2
0.31 0.31 0.36
White 72.6
3 9 8
0.28 0.39 0.31
India green 8.9
8 5 7
The values given in the table correspond to CIE 1931 colour
space. Approximate RGB values for use may be taken to be:
India saffron #FF671F, white #FFFFFF, India green #046A38,
navy blue #06038D. Pantone values closest to this are 165 C,
White, 2258 C and 2735 C.

Colour sche India India Navy

White
me saffron green blue
Pantone 165 C 000 C 2258 C 2735 C
96-0-47- 96-98-0-
CMYK 0-60-88-0 0-0-0-0
58 45
HEX #FF671F #FFFFFF #046A38 #06038D
255,255,25
RGB 255,103,31 4,106,56 6,3,141
5

Symbolism

Flag of India, New Delhi

The current Indian flag with Ashok Chakra was designed
by Badruddin Tyabji in 1947. Gandhi first proposed a flag to
the Indian National Congress in 1921. The precursor to current
flag , The swaraj flag was designed by Pingali Venkayya. In
the centre was a traditional spinning wheel, symbolising
Gandhi's goal of making Indians self-reliant by fabricating their
own clothing, between a red stripe for Hindus and a green
stripe for Muslims. The design was then modified to replace
red with saffron and to include a white stripe in the centre
for other religious communities (as well to symbolise peace
between the communities) and provide a background for the
spinning wheel. However, to avoid sectarian associations with
the colour scheme, the three bands were later reassigned new
meanings: courage and sacrifice, peace and truth, and
faith and chivalry respectively.
A few days before India became independent on 15 August
1947, the specially constituted Constituent Assembly decided
that the flag of India must be acceptable to all parties and
communities. A modified version of the Swaraj flag was chosen;
the tricolour remained the same saffron, white and green.
However, the spinning wheel was replaced by the Ashoka
Chakra representing the eternal wheel of law. The
philosopher Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, who later became
India's first vice president and second president, clarified the
adopted flag and described its significance as follows:
Kesari or the Saffron denotes renunciation or
disinterestedness. Our leaders must be indifferent to
material gains and dedicate themselves to their work. The
white in the centre is light, the path of truth to guide
our conduct. The green shows our relation to (the)
soil, our relation to the plant life here, on which all
other life depends. The "Ashoka Chakra" in the centre
of the white is the wheel of the law of dharma. Truth
or satya, dharma or virtue ought to be the controlling
principle of those who work under this flag. Again, the
wheel denotes motion. There is death in stagnation.
There is life in movement. India should no more resist
change, it must move and go forward. The wheel
represents the dynamism of a peaceful change.

Protocol
Main articles: Flag code of India and Prevention of Insults to
National Honour Act, 1971
Correct horizontal and vertical display of the flag
Display and usage of the flag is governed by the Flag Code of
India, 2002 (successor to the Flag Code – India, the original flag
code); the Emblems and Names (Prevention of Improper Use)
Act, 1950; and the Prevention of Insults to National Honor Act,
1971. Insults to the national flag, including gross affronts or
indignities to it, as well as using it in a manner so as to violate
the provisions of the Flag Code, are punishable by law with
imprisonment up to three years, or a fine, or both.
Official regulation states that :
 The flag must never touch the ground or water or be used as
a drapery in any form.
 The flag may not be intentionally placed upside down, dipped
in anything, or hold any objects other than flower petals
before unfurling.
 No sort of lettering may be inscribed on the flag.
 When out in the open, the flag should always be flown
between sunrise and sunset, irrespective of the weather
conditions.
 Prior to 2009, the flag could be flown on a public building at
night under special circumstances; currently, Indian citizens
can fly the flag even at night, subject to the restriction that
the flag should be hoisted on a tall flagpole and be well-
illuminated.
 The flag should never be depicted, displayed or flown upside
down.
 It is considered insulting to display the flag in a frayed or dirty
state, and the same rule applies to the flagpoles and halyards
used to hoist the flag, which should always be in a proper
state of maintenance.

The original flag code of India did not allow private citizens to fly
the national flag except on national days such as Independence
Day or Republic Day. In 2001, Naveen Jindal, an industrialist
used to the more egalitarian use of the flag in the United States
where he studied, flew the Indian flag on his office building. The
flag was confiscated, and he was warned of prosecution. Jindal
filed a public interest litigation petition in the High Court of
Delhi; he sought to strike down the restriction on the use of the
flag by private citizens, arguing that hoisting the national flag
with due decorum and honour was his right as a citizen, and a
way of expressing his love for the country.

The flag of India showcases three colours in a horizontal fashion:

saffron, white and green with an Ashoka Chakra in the middle.
At the end of the appeals process, the case was heard by
the Supreme Court of India; the court ruled in Jindal's favour,
asking the Government of India to consider the matter.
The Union Cabinet of India then amended the Indian Flag Code
with effect from 26 January 2002, allowing private citizens to
hoist the flag on any day of the year, subject to their
safeguarding the dignity, honour and respect of the flag. It is
also held that the code was not a statute and restrictions under
the code ought to be followed; also, the right to fly the flag is a
qualified right, unlike the absolute rights guaranteed to citizens,
and should be interpreted in the context of Article 19 of the
Constitution of India.
The original flag code also forbade use of the flag on uniforms,
costumes and other clothing. In July 2005, the Government of
India amended the code to allow some forms of usage. The
amended code forbids usage in clothing below the waist and on
undergarments, and forbids embroidering onto pillowcases,
handkerchiefs or other dress material.
Disposal of damaged flags is also covered by the flag code.
Damaged or soiled flags may not be cast aside or disrespectfully
destroyed; they have to be destroyed as a whole in private,
preferably by burning or by any other method consistent with
the dignity of the flag.

Display
Protocols for Displaying the Indian National Flag
The Flag Code India (2002), Prevention of Improper Use of
Emblems and Names Act (1950), and the Prevention of Insults to
National Honour Act (1971) govern the display, representation
and handling of the Indian National Flag. The Do’s and Don’ts of
handling the Indian National Flag are as follows:

1. The national flag should be displayed upright with the Saffron

strip facing the top in horizontal representations and left in the
vertical representations. The flag should never be displayed
upside down.
2. The Flag should be displayed on the right as this is the
position of authority when indoor.
3. When carried in a procession the National Flag should be
borne by marching right or otherwise by a lone marcher in the
center.
4. The flag cannot be used as drapery or clothing.
5. The flag should be hoisted down prior to sunset and erected
again after sunrise.
6. The flag pole for National Flag should be placed at the highest
point of the building.
7. Private institutions may display the national flag on all days
and occasions, ceremonial or otherwise, consistent with the
dignity and honor of the National Flag.
8. Post amendment of the Flag Code in 2002, Individual citizens
may also hoist/display the Indian National Flag in their premises
9. The flag may be flown half-mast as a sign of mourning the
decision of which lies with the President of India.
10. The National Flag of India must be displayed on Republic
Day (January 26), Independence Day (August 15), Gandhi Jayanti
(October 2), State formation Anniversaries and National Week.
11. On the occasion of armed forces personnel funerals the
National flag should be draped over the coffin, with the saffron
towards the head. However, the National Flag should never be
lowered into the grave or burnt in the pyre.
12. Soiled National Flag may be disposed as a whole in private
preserving the dignity of the same and should not be done
disrespectfully.

Placement protocol for the Indian flag with another country's

flag

Placement protocol for the Indian flag indoors

The rules regarding the correct methods to display the flag state
that when two flags are fully spread out horizontally on a wall
behind a podium, their hoists should be towards each other with
the saffron stripes uppermost.
If the flag is displayed on a short flagpole, this should be
mounted at an angle to the wall with the flag draped tastefully
from it. If two national flags are displayed on crossed staffs, the
hoists must be towards each other, and the flags must be fully
spread out.
The flag should never be used as a cloth to cover tables,
lecterns, podiums or buildings, or be draped from railings.
Whenever the flag is displayed indoors in halls at public
meetings or gatherings of any kind, it should always be on the
right (observers' left), as this is the position of authority.
So, when the flag is displayed next to a speaker in the hall or
other meeting place, it must be placed on the speaker's right
hand. When it is displayed elsewhere in the hall, it should be to
the right of the audience. The flag should be displayed
completely spread out with the saffron stripe on top. If
hung vertically on the wall behind the podium, the saffron
stripe should be to the left of the onlookers facing the
flag with the hoist cord at the top.

A flag procession
The flag, when carried in a procession or parade or with another
flag or flags, should be on the marching right or alone in the
centre at the front. The flag may form a distinctive feature of
the unveiling of a statue, monument, or plaque, but should
never be used as the covering for the object. As a mark of
respect to the flag, it should never be dipped to a person or
thing, as opposed to regimental colours, organisational or
institutional flags, which may be dipped as a mark of honour.
During the ceremony of hoisting or lowering the flag, or
when the flag is passing in a parade or in a review, all
persons present should face the flag and stand at attention.
Those present in uniform should render the appropriate salute.
When the flag is in a moving column, persons present will
stand at attention or salute as the flag passes them. A
dignitary may take the salute without a head dress. The flag
salutation should be followed by the playing of
the national anthem.
Indian Flag at the Red Fort, Delhi
The privilege of flying the national flag on vehicles is restricted
to the President, the Vice President or the Prime
Minister, Governors and Lieutenant Governors of states, Chief
Ministers, Union Ministers, members of the Parliament of
India and state legislatures of the Indian states (Vidhan
Sabha and Vidhan Parishad), judges of the Supreme Court of
India and High Courts, and flag officers of
the Army, Navy and Air Force. The flag has to be flown from a
staff affixed firmly either on the middle front or to the front right
side of the car. When a foreign dignitary travels in a car
provided by government, the flag should be flown on the right
side of the car while the flag of the foreign country should be
flown on the left side.
The flag should be flown on the aircraft carrying the
President, the Vice President or the Prime Minister on a
visit to a foreign country. Alongside the National Flag, the
flag of the country visited should also be flown; however, when
the aircraft lands in countries en route, the national flags of the
respective countries would be flown instead. When carrying the
president within India, aircraft display the flag on the side the
president embarks or disembarks; the flag is similarly flown on
trains, but only when the train is stationary or approaching a
railway station.
When the Indian flag is flown on Indian territory along with other
national flags, the general rule is that the Indian flag should
be the starting point of all flags. When flags are placed in a
straight line, the rightmost flag (leftmost to the observer
facing the flag) is the Indian flag, followed by other national
flags in alphabetical order. When placed in a circle, the
Indian flag is the first point and is followed by other flags
alphabetically. In such placement, all other flags should be of
approximately the same size with no other flag being larger than
the Indian flag. Each national flag should also be flown from its
own pole and no flag should be placed higher than another. In
addition to being the first flag, the Indian flag may also be
placed within the row or circle alphabetically. When placed on
crossed poles, the Indian flag should be in front of the other flag,
and to the right (observer's left) of the other flag. The only
exception to the preceding rule is when it is flown along with
the flag of the United Nations, which may be placed to the right
of the Indian flag.
When the Indian flag is displayed with non-national flags,
including corporate flags and advertising banners, the rules
state that if the flags are on separate staffs, the flag of India
should be in the middle, or the furthest left from the viewpoint
of the onlookers, or at least one flag's breadth higher than the
other flags in the group. Its flagpole must be in front of the other
poles in the group, but if they are on the same staff, it must be
the uppermost flag. If the flag is carried in procession with other
flags, it must be at the head of the marching procession, or if
carried with a row of flags in line abreast, it must be carried to
the marching right of the procession.
Half-mast

Indian flag flown at half-mast at the Red Fort

The flag should be flown at half-mast as a sign of
mourning. The decision to do so lies with the president of
India, who also decides the period of such mourning.
When the flag is to be flown at half mast, it must first be raised
to the top of the mast and then slowly lowered. Only the Indian
flag is flown half mast; all other flags remain at normal height.
The flag is flown half-mast nationwide on the death of the
president, vice president or prime minister. It is flown half-mast
in New Delhi and the state of origin for the Speaker of the
Lok Sabha, Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, and Union
Ministers. On deaths of governors, lieutenant governors
and chief ministers, the flag is flown at half-mast in the
respective states and union territories.
The Indian flag cannot be flown at half-mast on Republic Day (26
January), Independence day (15 August), Gandhi Jayanti (2
October), or state formation anniversaries, except over buildings
housing the body of the deceased dignitary. However, even in
such cases, the flag must be raised to full-mast when the body is
moved from the building.
Observances of State mourning on the death of foreign
dignitaries are governed by special instructions issued from the
Ministry of Home Affairs in individual cases. However, in the
event of death of either the Head of the State or Head of the
Government of a foreign country, the Indian Mission accredited
to that country may fly the national flag at half-mast.
On occasions of state, military, central para-military forces
funerals, the flag shall be draped over the bier or coffin with the
saffron towards the head of the bier or coffin. The flag should
not be lowered into the grave or burnt in the pyre.

Manufacturing process

A header of an Indian flag (size 6, date 2007/2008) certified by

the ISI
The design and manufacturing process for the national flag is
regulated by three documents issued by the Bureau of Indian
Standards (BIS). All of the flags are made out of khadi cloth of
silk or cotton. The standards were created in 1968 and were
updated in 2008. Nine standard sizes of the flag are specified by
law. In 1951, after India became a republic, the Indian Standards
Institute (now the BIS) brought out the first official specifications
for the flag. These were revised in 1964 to conform to the metric
system which was adopted in India. The specifications were
further amended on 17 August 1968. The specifications cover all
the essential requirements of the manufacture of the Indian flag
including sizes, dye colour, chromatic values, brightness, thread
count and hemp cordage. The guidelines are covered under civil
and criminal laws and defects in the manufacturing process can
result in punishments that include fines or jail terms.
Until 2021, khadi, a hand-spun cloth, was the only material
allowed to be used for the flag, and flying a flag made of any
other material was punishable by law with imprisonment up to
three years, besides a fine (although this was rarely enforced).
Raw materials for khadi are restricted to cotton, silk and wool.
There are two kinds of khadi used: The first is the khadi-bunting
which makes up the body of the flag, and the second is the
khadi-duck, which is a beige-coloured cloth that holds the flag to
the pole. The khadi-duck is an unconventional type of weave
that meshes three threads into a weave, compared to the two
threads used in conventional weaving. This type of weaving is
extremely rare, and there are fewer than twenty weavers in
India professing this skill. The guidelines also state that there
should be exactly 150 threads per square centimetre, four
threads per stitch, and one square foot should weigh exactly
205 grams (7.2 oz).
The woven khadi is obtained from two handloom units in
the Dharwad and Bagalkot districts of northern Karnataka. As of
2022, there are four BIS flag production and supply units;
namely Karnataka Khadi Gramodyoga Samyukta Sangha based
in Hubli, Khadi Dyers & Printers (also known as Kore Gramodyog
Kendra) based in Borivali, KDP Enterprises based in Vasai, and
the Madhya Bharat Khadi Sangh based in Gwalior. The unit in
Gwalior in particular has a laboratory for testing the standard of
the Khadi cloth used for making the flags.
Permission for setting up flag manufacturing units in India is
allotted by the Khadi Development and Village Industries
Commission, though the BIS has the power to cancel the
licences of units that flout guidelines. The hand-woven khadi for
the National Flag was initially manufactured at Garag, a small
village in the Dharwad district. A Centre was established at
Garag in 1954 by a few freedom fighters under the banner of
Dharwad Taluk Kshetriya Seva Sangh and obtained the centre's
licence to make flags.
Once woven, the material is sent to the BIS laboratories for
testing. After quality testing, the material, if approved, is
returned to the factory. It is then separated into three lots which
are dyed saffron, white and green. The Ashoka Chakra is screen
printed, stencilled or suitably embroidered onto each side of the
white cloth. Care also has to be taken that the chakra is
completely visible and synchronised on both sides. Three pieces
of the required dimension, one of each colour, are then stitched
together according to specifications and the final product is
ironed and packed. The BIS then checks the colours and only
then can the flag be sold.
In December 2021 the Government of India amended the flag
code to allow machine manufacturing of flags as well as the use
of alternative materials including polyester, non-khadi cotton or
silk.

Celebrations of National Flag Day

Here is an overview of some common types of events that take
place as part of National Flag Adoption Day celebrations across
India:
 Flag Hoisting Ceremonies – Government offices,
educational institutions, and public spaces host flag hoisting
ceremonies to commemorate the adoption of the National
Flag by the Constituent Assembly.
 Awareness Campaigns – Various organizations conduct
awareness campaigns to educate the public, especially
students and youth, about the history, significance, and
symbolism of the National Flag.
 Public Lectures and Discussions – Universities, historical
societies, and cultural organizations organize lectures,
seminars, and panel discussions on the evolution of the Indian
flag, its importance in national identity, and its role in the
freedom struggle.
 Art and Cultural Events – Art exhibitions, painting
competitions, and cultural performances are organized to
 showcase artistic interpretations of the National Flag and its
symbolism.
 Patriotic Activities – Patriotic songs, plays, and storytelling
sessions are held to instil a sense of pride and respect for the
National Flag among citizens, especially the younger
generation.
 Community Outreach – Local communities participate by
organizing flag-themed events, rallies, and community service
projects that emphasize national unity, diversity, and the
values enshrined in the Indian Constitution.
 Partnerships and Collaborations – Government bodies,
educational institutions, and civil society organizations
collaborate to organize inclusive and impactful events that
highlight the significance of the national flag in fostering unity
and patriotism.

Objectives of National Flag Day Celebration

The objectives of National Flag Adoption Day celebrations in
India typically include:
 To reinforce the spirit of national unity and integrity among
citizens by honouring the symbol of the national flag.
 To educate the public, especially students and youth, about
the history, significance, and symbolism of the national flag.
 To instil a sense of patriotism, respect, and pride for the
national flag and what it represents – freedom, sovereignty,
and unity.
 To reflect on the struggles and sacrifices made by the
freedom fighters and leaders who contributed to the adoption
of the national flag.
 To promote cultural activities and events that showcase the
significance of the national flag in India’s cultural heritage.
 To encourage active participation of communities,
educational institutions, and organizations in celebrating the
national flag as a unifying symbol of the nation.
 To raise awareness about the laws and guidelines governing
the proper display and use of the national flag, promoting
responsible civic behaviour.
 To inspire future generations to uphold the values of
democracy, secularism, and inclusiveness that the national
flag represents.
National Flag Day 2024 Celebrations
 Like every year, Indian National Flag Day 2024 is celebrated
on 22nd July to commemorate the adoption of India’s National
Flag by the Constituent Assembly in 1947.
 As we approach National Flag Adoption Day 2024, the specific
theme for this year’s celebrations has not yet been
announced officially.
 However, activities and events will be organized around the
theme once declared, focusing on honouring the flag’s
symbolism, reflecting on its historical significance, and
promoting national unity and pride.

Theme for National Flag Day 2024

 The theme for National Flag Adoption Day 2024 will soon be
declared, marking the occasion when India adopted its
National Flag on 22nd July 1947.
 The theme for National Flag Day 2024, decided in honor of
this significant event, will guide the nationwide celebrations
and initiatives aimed at highlighting the flag’s historical
importance and its enduring symbolism of unity and
independence.
 This theme will set the stage for various activities and events
that will engage citizens in reflecting upon and celebrating
the pride and values associated with our National Flag.

Significance of National Flag Day Celebrations

The importance of Indian National Flag Day celebrations lies in
their role as a commemoration of a pivotal moment in India’s
journey towards independence and national identity. The key
points highlighting its significance are:
 Historical Commemoration – Indian National Flag Day,
observed on 22nd July, marks the adoption of India’s tricolour
National Flag by the Constituent Assembly in 1947. This event
occurred just weeks before India gained independence from
British colonial rule on 15th August 1947, making it a crucial
milestone in the nation’s history.
 Symbol of Unity and Identity – The National Flag is more
than a symbol, it embodies the unity, diversity, and
aspirations of the Indian people. Celebrations reaffirm these
 values and serve as a reminder of the sacrifices made by
freedom fighters who fought for India’s freedom.
 Educational Value – Through various activities such as
educational workshops, lectures, and exhibitions, National
Flag Day fosters a deeper understanding among citizens,
especially youth, about the flag’s history, significance, and
the principles it represents—democracy, diversity, and
inclusiveness.
 Patriotic Sentiment – Celebrations evoke a sense of pride
and patriotism among citizens. It encourages respect for
national symbols and reinforces the values of independence,
sovereignty, and national pride.
 Community Engagement – The day brings together people
from all walks of life – government officials, educational
institutions, civil society organizations, and the general public
– to participate in events that strengthen national spirit and
unity.
 Promotion of Civic Responsibility – By reflecting on the
meaning behind the flag, celebrations promote civic
responsibility and encourage active participation in nation-
building efforts.
 Continued Relevance – Over the years, National Flag Day
has evolved into an occasion for renewal and rededication to
the ideals of freedom, justice, and equality that the flag
represents. It serves as a reminder of the ongoing journey
towards a more prosperous and inclusive India.

Flag Code of India

 The Flag Code of India is a set of guidelines and regulations

that govern the display, usage, and respect of the national
flag.
 Enforced by the Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of
India, the Flag Code of India outlines strict protocols for
hoisting, handling, and displaying tricolour to ensure it is
treated with dignity and honour.
 The Flag Code of India specifies rules regarding the
proportions, colors, and positioning of the flag, and prohibits
its use in any manner disrespectful to its status as a national
symbol.
 The Flag Code of India serves to uphold the pride and
integrity associated with India’s national flag, reinforcing its
importance as a symbol of unity, sovereignty, and national
identity.

Use of National Flag as a drapery

 The National Flag of the country can only be used as a
drapery if a funeral has been accorded the status of a state
funeral.
 State funerals are held if a person passed away belongs to
police, armed forces, office of President, Vice-President, Prime
Minister, Cabinet Minister, Chief Minister.
 The state government can accord the state funeral status to
the person other than the mentioned categories.
 “The Flag shall not be used as a drapery in any form
whatsoever except in State/Military/Central Para military
Forces funerals herein after provided.
 The Flag shall not be used as a drapery in any form
whatsoever, including private funerals;
 The Flag shall not be draped over the hood, top, sides or back
of a vehicle, train or boat.”

Who can display the National Flag on their car:

The privilege of hosting the National Flag on motor cars is only
limited to the following persons as per paragraph 3.44 of the
Flag Code of India, 2002.
• President
• Vice-President
• Governors and Lieutenant Governors
• Heads of Indian Missions/Posts
• Prime Minister
• Cabinet Ministers, Minister of State, and Deputy Ministers of
the Union
• Chief Minister and Cabinet Minister of a State or Union
Territory • Speaker of the Lok Sabha, Deputy Chairman of Rajya
Sabha, Deputy Speaker of Lok Sabha, Chairman of Legislative
Councils in States, Speakers of the Legislative Assemblies in
States and Union Territories, Deputy Chairman of Legislative
Council in States, Deputy Speakers of Legislative Assemblies in
States and Union Territories
• Chief Justice of India • Judges of Supreme Court • Chief Justice
of High Courts • Judges of High Courts

How should the National Flag be disposed?

• As per paragraph 2.2 of the Flag Code of India, if the National
Flag is damaged, it shall be destroyed as a whole in private,
preferably by burning or any other method considering the
dignity of the National Flag.
• The National Flag, if made of paper, is waved by the general
public, these flags should not be discarded on the ground. These
should be discarded in private, keeping in mind the dignity of
the National Flag.

What is the correct way to display the National Flag in

the open/on public buildings?

As per Section III of Part III of the Flag Code of India, if the
National Flag is flown on public buildings, it should be flown on
all days from sunrise to sunset, irrespective of the weather
conditions. It should be hoisted briskly and lowered slowly.
• When the National Flag is displayed flat and horizontal on a
wall, the saffron band shall be upper and when displayed
vertically, the saffron band shall be to the right in reference to
the National Flag i.e., it should be to the left of a person facing
it.
• When the National Flag is displayed from a staff projecting
horizontally or at an angle from a windowsill, balcony, or front of
a building, the saffron band shall be at the farther end of the
staff.

Display of the National Flag:

The national flag of India should always be displayed in a
dignified manner.
It should never touch the ground or water or be draped over
vehicles, furniture, or public monuments.
The flag should not be used for decorative purposes or as a part
of a costume except in specific cultural and artistic contexts.

Hoisting the Flag:

The national flag should be hoisted briskly and lowered slowly
with respect and ceremony.
When the flag is hoisted or lowered, all present should stand at
attention. Those in uniform should salute.
The National Flag can be flown both during the day and at night
if it is displayed in the open or in the house of a public
member. (Amendment 2022)

Half-Masting:
The flag should be flown at half-mast on specific occasions, such
as to mourn the death of a dignitary or during a national
mourning period. The decision to half-mast the flag is made by
the Government of India.

Prohibitions:
The flag should not be defaced, damaged, or altered in any way.
It should not be used for commercial or advertising purposes.
The flag should not be used as a drapery in any form except
during state funerals.
The flag should not be displayed with the saffron band down.

Private Use:
Citizens are encouraged to display the national flag on their
homes, vehicles, and other personal belongings on national
holidays and other appropriate occasions.
Flying of Other Flags:
The national flag should always be given precedence over any
other flag, whether within India or when flown alongside the flag
of another country.

Use of the Flag by Private Organizations:

Private organizations, educational institutions, and others may
use the national flag for specific ceremonial or educational
purposes, but they must adhere to the guidelines laid out in the
Flag Code.

National Anthem
History of Indian National Anthem
The song ‘Bharat Bhagya Bidhata’ was first sung on the Day 2
of the annual session of the Indian National Congress in
Calcutta on December 27, 1911. Song was performed by
Sarala Devi Chowdhurani, Tagore’s niece, along with a group of
school students, in front of prominent Congress Members like
Bishan Narayan Dhar, Indian National Congress President and
Ambika Charan Majumdar.
In 1912, the song was published under the title Bharat Bidhata
in the Tatwabodhini Patrika, which was the official publication
of the Brahmo Samaj and of which Tagore was the Editor.
Outside of Calcutta, the song was first sung by the bard
himself at a session in Besant Theosophical College in
Madanapalle, Andhra Pradesh on February 28, 1919. The song
enthralled the college authorities and they adopted the English
version of the song as their prayer song which is sung till
today.
On the occasion of India attaining freedom, the Indian
Constituent Assembly assembled for the first time as a
sovereign body on August 14, 1947, midnight and the session
closed with a unanimous performance of Jana Gana Mana.
The members of the Indian Delegation to the General
Assembly of the United Nations held at New York in 1947 gave
a recording of Jana Gana Mana as the country’s national
anthem. The song was played by the house orchestra in front
of a gathering consisting of representatives from all over the
world.
Jana Gana Mana was officially proclaimed as India’s National
Anthem by the Constituent Assembly of India on January 24,
1950.
Occasions for playing the Anthem
The full version of the national anthem requires duration of
approximately 52 seconds to be played while the shorter
version takes about 20 seconds. The national anthem is a
symbol of pride for the citizens of the country and is required
to be played on specifically designated occasions which are
listed below.
1. The full version of the National Anthem is played on the
following occasions:
a. Accompanying the performance of National Salute on
ceremonial occasions to the President of India or Governors of
States/Union Territories.
b. During parade demonstrations in front of the dignitaries
referred in the preceding point
c. before and after the President’s address of the nation
d. Before arrival and departure of the President or Governor
from a formal ceremony
e. When the national Flag is hoisted during cultural occasions
f. When the Regimental Colors are presented
2. The National Anthem is not to be played for the Prime
Minister generally, except under special circumstances.
3. On the occasion where the National Anthem is performed by
a Band, a roll of drums is to precede the actual performance, in
order to let the audience know and prepare for paying respect.
The roll will be 7 paces of slow march, will start slowly, ascend
to a loud volume and should remain audible till the last beat.

National Anthem of India - Code of Conduct

A specific set of rules and regulations have been set by the
Government of India to oversee the proper and correct
rendition of the National Anthem. The Prevention of Insults to
National Honour Act, 1971, was penned down by the
Government of India to prevent any intentional disrespect or
insult towards the National Anthem of the country. Offenders
are punishable with up to three years of imprisonment as well
as monetary fine.
The following codes of conduct are to be observed by Indian
citizens whenever the National Anthem is played:
1. Should stand up to attention.
2. Individual’s head should be held high
3. One should be looking forward.
4. Mass singing of the National Anthem is to accompany the
unfurling of the National Flag.
5. No parody/distortion of words or music of the National
Anthem is allowed.
Significance
The National Anthem is perhaps one of the most potent
declarations of a country’s independent status. India is a
nation of multiple languages and dialects therein. Jana Gana
Mana is understood unequivocally throughout India and thus
brings forth the spirit of unity among these diverse languages.
Our National Anthem conveys very aptly the traditions and
values that still hold strong as the backbone of the country. It
helps reinforce the accepting and assimilating nature of Indian
culture along with its tolerance to pluralism. Jana Gana Mana
appeals to the country’s patriotic emotions and helps unifying
the different races, castes and creeds by solemn singing of the
hymn-like verses.
Facts about National Anthem of India
1. Written by Rabindranath Tagore: The lyrics of "Jana Gana
Mana" were penned by the Nobel laureate Rabindranath
Tagore in 1911. It was originally composed in Bengali as
"Bharoto Bhagyo Bidhata".
2. First Sung at Calcutta (now Kolkata): The song was first
sung at the Calcutta Session of the Indian National Congress
on December 27, 1911.
3. Adopted as National Anthem: "Jana Gana Mana" was
officially adopted as the National Anthem of India on January
24, 1950.
4. Multi-Lingual: While the original lyrics were in Bengali, the
anthem is sung in the Bengali version in most official settings.
However, the song has been translated into Hindi and is sung
in Hindi as well.
5. Duration and Composition: The full version of "Jana Gana
Mana" consists of five stanzas, but only the first stanza is
designated as the National Anthem. The composition is in the
raga Alhiya Bilawal.
6. Respect and Protocol: It is customary to stand when the
National Anthem is played. Hats or caps should be removed,
and citizens should stand at attention facing the Indian flag.
Failure to adhere to these customs can be considered
disrespectful.
7. Controversies and Criticism: Over the years, there have
been debates and controversies regarding the inclusion of
certain words and phrases in the anthem, as well as its
appropriateness as a national symbol in a diverse country like
India. However, it continues to hold a significant place in
Indian culture and identity.
8. Universal Brotherhood: The lyrics of "Jana Gana Mana" are
imbued with themes of unity, inclusivity, and the idea of India
as a land of diverse cultures and people. It celebrates the
plurality and richness of the Indian nation.
9. Patriotic Symbol: The anthem is not only a symbol of
national pride but also serves as a reminder of India's
struggle for independence and its aspirations as a democratic
and secular nation.
Significance of National Anthem of India
The National Anthem of India, "Jana Gana Mana," holds
profound significance and serves as a symbol of the country's
unity, diversity, and patriotic fervor. Composed by
Rabindranath Tagore, it was first sung on December 27, 1911,
at the Calcutta Session of the Indian National Congress.
Officially adopted as the national anthem on January 24, 1950,
shortly after India's independence, it plays an essential role in
national ceremonies and functions. Here are some key points
highlighting its significance:
1. Unity in Diversity: The anthem encapsulates India's diverse
culture, languages, and geographical breadth. It unifies
people across different states, religions, and backgrounds,
promoting a sense of national cohesion and pride.
2. Historical Importance: "Jana Gana Mana" reflects India's
struggle for freedom. It embodies the aspirations, spirit, and
the sacrifices of the freedom fighters who fought for
independence from British rule.
3. Cultural and Ethical Values: The anthem fosters a sense of
respect and loyalty towards the nation. It serves as a
reminder of India's rich cultural heritage and promotes values
such as bravery, sacrifice, and patriotism.
4. Global Identity: The national anthem represents India's
identity on the global stage. It is played at international
events, such as sports competitions and diplomatic functions,
symbolizing the country's sovereignty and unity.
5. Constitutional Recognition: The anthem's adoption and the
respect accorded to it are enshrined in the Constitution of
India. It mandates that citizens should respect the anthem,
which reflects the constitutional values of justice, liberty,
equality, and fraternity.
National Flag Of
India
&
National
Anthem
 Scout Guide Flag Song

Bharat Scout Guide Jhanda Uncha Sada Rahega

Uncha Sada Rahega Jhanda Uncha Sada Rahega.
Neela Rang Gagan Sa Vistrit Bhratru Bhav Phailata,
Tridal Kamal Nit Teen Pratigyaon Ki Yaad Dilata.
Aur Chakra Kahta Hai Pratipal Aage Kadam Badhega.
Uncha Sada Rahega Jhanda Uncha Sada Rahega – 1
Ye Chobiso Aare Chakra Ke Hamse Pratipal Kahte
Savdhan Chobiso Ghante, Hum Mein Hein Bal Bharte
Tatpar Sada Rahe Seva Mein Jeevan Safal Banega
Uncha Sada Rahega Jhanda Uncha Sada Rahega -2
Parhit Raksha Mein Hum Jeevan Has Has De De
Apna Is Jhande Par Marmitneka Hein Sukhadayi Sapna
Seva Ka Pathdarshak Jhanda , Ghar Ghar Mein Fahrega
Uncha Sada Rahega Jhanda Uncha Sada Rahega -3
Bharat Scout Guide Jhanda Uncha Sada Rahega

Meaning of Flag song-

Flag of the Bharat Scouts and Guides will always remain high.
The Flag will remain high perpetually.
Blue colour like a wide sky , spreads fraternity(Brotherhood).
The Trefoil always reminds us three parts of promise.
And wheel tells us that always move a step forward towards
progress.
The Flag will remain high forever.
24 Spokes of wheel says us that Be Alert for 24 Hours and
inculcate power to us. Your life will not become useful unless
you remain alert to serve forever.
The Flag will remain high perpetually.
We will give our life with smile to serve interests of others.
Our beautiful Dream is to die for this flag.
This Directing flag of service will reach at every home.
The Flag will remain high forever.