On Wednesday, the Ministry of Home Affairs of India announced new guidelines regarding the national song 'Vande Mataram'. The government has mandated that the six-verse version of 'Vande Mataram' be played or sung at all official events immediately following the national anthem, 'Jana Gana Mana'. This change aims to formalize the presence of 'Vande Mataram' in public life, emphasizing its significance alongside the national anthem.

The total duration of the six verses will be 3 minutes and 10 seconds, which aligns with the protocol for raising the national flag and during the attendance of the President at functions, as well as during his speeches or addresses to the nation. Furthermore, the guidelines specify that this mandatory recitation must also take place before and after the arrival and speeches of state governors. This move reflects an effort to reinforce national pride and cultural identity through the inclusion of 'Vande Mataram' in official ceremonial contexts.

The announcement has implications for schools and public institutions, as adherence to these guidelines will be required across all educational settings. This decision could spark conversations about nationalism, cultural heritage, and the role of patriotic songs in daily public life, further fueling discussions on the identity narrative the government aims to promote through such mandates.