Procedure for National Flag Hoisting in India: Guidelines and Respect for the Tricolor

India, a land of diverse cultures and traditions, upholds the sanctity of its national flag with zeal and respect through the National Flag Code of India. This code specifies the protocols necessary for hoisting, displaying, and disposing of the Indian flag. Understanding these guidelines ensures that the flag is honored and maintained with dignity and reverence.

Preparation

The first step involves thorough preparation:

Ensure the flag is made of the correct material, preferably xhadi. Verify that the flag is clean and in optimal condition, free of any damage or defects.

Location and Security

The flag should be hoisted on a flagpole that is at least 20 feet tall. It is preferable to be in a prominent location. Ensure that the area is clean and the flagpole is securely anchored:

Choose a flagpole with proper hoisting mechanisms for safety and ease. Avoid using a simple white pole; it must have built-in hoisting mechanisms.

Timing

The flag can be hoisted from sunrise to sunset. For nighttime displays, the flag must be properly illuminated to maintain its dignity:

Officially, the flag can remain illuminated after sunset. It risks desecration if it is displayed at night without proper lighting.

Ceremony

The hoisting ceremony involves the following steps:

Gathering

Assemble participants for the flag hoisting ceremony. This ensures a solemn and respectful environment:

National Anthem

Playlist or sing the national anthem, Jana Gana Mana, either before or after the flag is hoisted. This instills a sense of national pride and unity.

Flag Hoisting

Properly hoist the flag briskly, ensuring it does not touch the ground or water. The flag should be displayed with the saffron band on top or to the right when displayed vertically:

The saffron band should always be on the topmost position or the right side when displayed vertically. An improper display with the saffron band at the bottom is not allowed and is considered an offense.

Respectful Conduct

Ensure all attendees stand at attention during the flag hoisting ceremony and the playing of the national anthem. This demonstrates respect for the flag:

Post-Hoisting

Post-hoisting, the flag should be allowed to fly freely. Proper care should be taken to keep the flag clean. It should be taken down at sunset unless properly illuminated:

Discuss with the venue or office management about the proper timing for lowering the flag. Ignoring sunset timings could result in inappropriate display.

Disposal of the Flag

In the event of damage or wear and tear, dispose of the flag in a dignified manner by burning it appropriately:

Organize a dignified ceremony to dispose of the flag, possibly with a symbolic burning. Ensure this is done in a manner befitting the sanctity of the flag.

Additional Notes

To further emphasize the importance of these procedures, remember:

Hoist and display the flag with respect and dignity to maintain its sanctity. Avoid using the flag for commercial purposes or as drapery. Use it solely for its intended purpose.

Adhering to the procedures outlined in the Flag Code of India ensures the national flag is respected and honored as it should be. Properly observing these guidelines guarantees the preservation of the flag's sanctity for generations to come.