Why is it in the news?
MHA issued fresh instructions mandating sequence of National Song and National Anthem at official events.
Vande Mataram must precede Jana Gana Mana when both are played.
Category: Polity
Important Points:
● Vande Mataram to be played/sung before Jana Gana Mana in official events
● Audience must stand during official version (~3.10 minutes)
● No requirement to stand during newsreel or documentary screening
● Mandated for Presidential/Gubernatorial events and flag ceremonies
● To be played before and after President’s address on AIR/TV
● Article 51A(a) mandates respect for national symbols
● Vande Mataram composed by Bankim Chandra Chatterjee (1875; in Anandamath 1882)
● Adopted as National Song on 24 January 1950
● Jana Gana Mana written by Rabindranath Tagore (1911)
● Adopted as National Anthem on 24 January 1950