Centre Issues New Protocol for State Anthems at Official Events

The Union Home Ministry has issued new guidelines regarding the singing of national songs and state anthems during official programmes. According to the latest orders, if any state has a tradition of singing its official state anthem along with the National Anthem and National Song at government events, certain protocols must be followed.

The Centre clarified that as per the official programme sequence, Vande Mataram should be sung first, followed by the complete rendition of Jana Gana Mana. Only after both are completed can the official state anthem of the respective state be sung, the Home Ministry stated.