National Anthem, National Song, and National Flag are symbols of our country. These three should always be treated with respect and honour as they represent those who worked, fought and sacrificed their lives for our rights and safety and security. National symbols represent the hopes and aspirations of the people of the Country.
People of the country all set hoist the National Flag as part of the ‘Har Ghar Tiranga’ program. It is a platform to show our love for the nation by hoisting the flag at our home, office and business establishment.
Particularly, everyone should follow the guidelines when hoisting the National Flag. The Flag Code of India clearly lays down the rules for hoisting Tricolour and how to store it after displaying it on the Independence Day.
Independence Day celebrated on 15th August and Republic Day celebrated on 26th January is the pride of our tri-coloured national flag which is hoisted across the country. India will celebrate its 78th Independence Day on August 15, 2024, to mark its freedom from two centuries of British rule. India gained Independence on August 15, 1947, marking the beginning of an Independent nation.
National Flag is a symbol of sovereignty & pride
The Indian National Flag is a Symbol of our Nation’s Sovereignty and National Pride. It represents the hopes and dreams of the Citizens of India. Disrespecting and Insulting the National Flag is an offence which is punishable under the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971.
The National Flag can be displayed by all members of the general public, organizations and educational institutions as long as the Guiding Principles prescribed in the Flag Code of India, 2002 are followed as given below.
National Flag shall be made of hand spun and hand woven wool/cotton/silk/khadi bunting.
It shall be rectangular in shape. The ratio of the length of the height (width) of the Flag shall be 3:2.
It shall not be displayed with the 'saffron' down.
Rules for flag hoisting in India
General Guidelines
Respect and dignity: The flag should be treated with respect and dignity.
Position: The flag should be hoisted in a prominent position, usually on a flagpole or mast.
Timing: The flag can be hoisted from sunrise to sunset.
Flag Hoisting Protocol
Unfurling: The flag should be unfurled slowly and ceremoniously.
Salutation: Those present should salute the flag as it is being hoisted.
National Anthem: The National Anthem, "Jana Gana Mana", should be played while hoisting the flag.
Flag Maintenance
Cleanliness: The flag should be kept clean and free from damage.
Storage: When not in use, the flag should be stored in a dry and respectful manner.
Flag Disposal
Respectful disposal: The flag should be disposed of in a respectful manner, usually by burning or burying.
Special Occasions
Independence Day (August 15th): The flag should be hoisted at all government buildings, schools, and institutions.
Republic Day (January 26th): The flag should be hoisted at all government buildings, schools, and institutions.
Other national days: The flag should be hoisted on other national days, such as Gandhi Jayanti (October 2nd).
Penalties for Misuse
Improper use: Using the flag for commercial purposes or in a disrespectful manner can lead to penalties.
Damage: Intentionally damaging the flag can lead to penalties.
Impact of Har Ghar Tiranga program
The Har Ghar Tiranga program has had a significant impact on Indians, fostering a sense of patriotism and national pride.
Unity in Diversity: The program has brought together people from all over India, celebrating their unity in diversity.
Personal Connection to the Flag: The initiative has helped create a personal connection to the flag, making it a symbol of national pride and unity.
Patriotism: The program has ignited a deep sense of patriotism within every citizen, fostering a greater understanding of the significance of the national flag.
Youth and Children: The campaign has especially impacted the youth and children, encouraging them to preserve the memories of India's freedom struggle.
Guinness World Record: India has achieved a milestone by making the Guinness World Record for the Largest Human Image of a Waving Flag at a Cricket Stadium in Chandigarh.
Nationwide Celebration: The program has become a people's movement, with people from all across the country hoisting the Tiranga and expressing their gratitude towards the freedom fighters who fought bravely for India.
