Har Ghar Tiranga: What Is The Proper Way To Fly The Tricolour? Check Out These National Flag Code Rules
Ahead of India's 78th Independence Day, Check out the common rules and regulations governing the display and disposal of the Indian national flag.
- What to do if the national flag I put up for display is torn or frayed?
- How should I dispose of a damaged Tricolour?
- Can I wear a dress that has the Tricolour printed on it?
- Can I display a flag on your car?
Every year, during the Independence Day and Republic Day celebrations such questions come up in the minds of the general public. Irrespective of their political and community affiliation, every Indian feels a sense of pride unfurling the Tricolour or displaying it on vehicles, at homes and offices, and in various institutions. The national flag of India represents India's Independence and sovereignty. While we all feel pride, respect, and affection for our national flag, there is a lack of awareness about the rules that govern the various aspects of the Tricolour.
In order to promote the Tricolour even more, Prime Minister Narendra Modi pushes for the 'Har Ghar Tiranga' campaign every year. The Centre's 'Har Ghar Tiranga' mission states: "Historically, our relationship with the flag has often been formal and distant, but this campaign seeks to transform it into a deeply personal and heartfelt connection. The 'Har Ghar Tiranga' initiative strives to ignite a deep sense of patriotism within every citizen and foster a greater understanding of the significance of our national flag."
Apart from the non-statutory instructions issued by the Government from time to time, the displaying of the National Flag is governed by the provisions of the Emblems and Names (Prevention of Improper Use) Act, 1950, and the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971. The Flag Code of India, 2002, brings together all such laws, conventions, practices and instructions to simplify it for the general public.
While the Flag Code Of India lists several provisions to help one honour the Tricolour, we shall cover some of the basic and most frequently asked questions in this article ahead of India's 78th Independence Day.
What should be the national flag size?
The Flag Code states that the "National Flag shall be rectangular in shape. The ratio of the length to the height (width) of the Flag shall be 3:2. Among the most commonly used sizes for display of the Tricolour are 450X300 mm for VVIP aircraft, 225X150 mm for motorcars and 150X100 mm for table flags.
How should a flag be displayed?
A flag made of rigid material, such as plastic or paper, that prevents it from fluttering should be placed in such a manner that the audience is able to see it turned towards their left. The rule is the same if a flag made of cloth is placed against a wall.
If placed with flags of other nations, the Tricolour shall be placed to the extreme left of the audience. The flags of the other nations shall then be placed to the right in the alphabetical order of their names.
What is the rule to display the flag on my car?
If the national flag is displayed alone on a motor car, it shall be flown from a staff firmly fixed either at the centre of the front of the bonnet or on the right side of the car. The Flag Code mandates: "The Flag shall not be draped over the hood, top, sides or
back of a vehicle, train, boat or an aircraft."
Can a costume or dress have the image of the national flag?
No. The national flag shall not be used as a portion of costume or uniform of any description nor shall it be embroidered or
printed upon cushions, handkerchiefs, napkins or any dress material. In addition to these restrictions, the flag can't be used as a drape of any kind, including at a private funeral.
How should school students pledge allegiance to the national flag?
When pledging allegiance during school prayers, students should fold hands together and repeat: "I pledge allegiance to the National Flag and to the Sovereign Socialist Secular Democratic Republic for which it stands."
My flag is frayed or damaged. Can I still display/hoist it?
No, a damaged or dishevelled flag should not be displayed.
I used a paper flag at an event to display my pride towards India. What should I do with it after the event?
A flag made of paper may be waved at important events of national, cultural, and sports interest. However, such paper flags should not be discarded or thrown on the ground after the event. It should be disposed of in private, showing full dignity to the Tricolour.
How should I discard my flag if it is damaged?
According to the flag code, when the Flag is damaged or soiled, it must be destroyed as a whole in private, preferably by burning, showing full dignity to the Flag.
In addition to the above rules, it must be remembered that the national flag must never touch the ground or trail in water. Moreover, the tricolour must never be flown/displayed with the saffron band at the bottom.
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