Centre Clarifies Order on National Song & National Anthem After Confusion in Some States Over Sequence With State Songs
New Delhi, July 12: The Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has issued a fresh directive to all States, Union Territories and Central Ministries reiterating the rules governing the singing and playing of India’s National Song (Vande Mataram) and National Anthem (Jana Gana Mana), following instances in some States where State Songs are also performed during official functions.
The order, issued by Joint Secretary Arvind Khare on July 9, 2026, has been sent to all Chief Secretaries, Administrators of Union Territories and Secretaries of Central Ministries for strict compliance.
Why was the order issued?
The MHA communication indicates that the clarification became necessary because some States also perform their respective State Songs along with the National Song and National Anthem during official events.
To remove any ambiguity regarding the sequence of performances, the Centre has clarified that:
- Whenever a State Song is performed together with the National Song and National Anthem, the National Song must be sung or played first, followed by the National Anthem.
- Authorities have been directed to ensure strict adherence to the prescribed order during official functions.
Existing guidelines reiterated
The Ministry said the Government of India has, from time to time, issued detailed orders specifying the occasions on which the National Song and National Anthem:
- Must be sung or played;
- May be sung or played; and
- Should be performed both at the beginning and at the end of certain official events.
The latest communication encloses these existing orders and asks all authorities to ensure strict compliance.
Correct lyrics and pronunciation stressed
The MHA has also directed that whenever the National Song or National Anthem is sung or played, the official text, script and pronunciation must be followed without deviation.
To facilitate compliance, the Ministry has made available the official text as well as the approved pronunciation on its website.
Instructions to all authorities
The Centre has asked States, Union Territories and all Central Ministries to issue suitable instructions to institutions and organisations under their jurisdiction to ensure uniform implementation of the guidelines across the country.
No change in law
The communication does not introduce a new law or alter the existing protocol relating to the National Song or National Anthem. Instead, it serves as a clarification and reiteration of the existing guidelines, particularly in situations where State Songs are performed alongside national symbols during official ceremonies.
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