Patna: Government schools across Bihar will begin incorporating the national song ‘Vande Mataram’ into morning assemblies, following new directives issued by the state government in line with a central order.
The cabinet secretariat department has instructed senior officials, including additional chief secretaries, divisional commissioners and district magistrates, to ensure the implementation of the directive across all institutions.
Under the new guidelines, schools are required to sing ‘Vande Mataram’ at least once a week during morning prayer assemblies. The song will also be mandatory during national festivals, government events and other official occasions.
Officials said the move aims to standardise observance of the national song across educational and public institutions.
The government has also emphasised that individuals must stand in respect when the national song is played, warning that any negligence or disrespect will be taken seriously.
Responsibility for ensuring compliance has been placed on heads of institutions, who have been asked to oversee adherence to the directive.
However, the order clarifies that there is no requirement to stand when the national song is played as part of a film or a news broadcast.
The directive forms part of a broader push to reinforce ceremonial practices linked to national symbols in public institutions.
