Flag hoisting rules: Check these important dos and don’ts before celebrating Independence Day with the Tricolour

Flag hoisting Independence Day 15th August 2025: India will celebrate its 79th Independence Day on August 15, honouring the sacrifices of freedom fighters and marking the country’s liberation from nearly 200 years of British rule in 1947. The day will be observed across the country with the hoisting of the national flag, singing of the national anthem, and cultural programmes.

Flag Hoisting time and protocol on 15th August

According to the Flag Code of India, the national flag should traditionally be hoisted at sunrise and lowered at sunset. Since the 2022 amendment, the flag can also be flown at night if it is adequately illuminated. On Independence Day, the flag is “hoisted” from the bottom to the top of the pole, symbolising India’s victory over colonial rule.

Also Read: Catch all the Independence Day 2025 live updates here

Dos for hoisting the Tricolour

• Hoist the flag briskly and lower it slowly with dignity.
• Keep the saffron band on top when displayed vertically.
• Display the flag in a prominent position, not overshadowed by other flags or objects.
• Ensure the flag is clean, undamaged, and of the correct proportions (3:2).
• Flags can be made of hand-spun, hand-woven, or machine-made cotton, polyester, wool, or silk khadi bunting.
• The flag may be flown by individuals, private organisations, and educational institutions on all days, including Sundays and holidays.
• The flag may be flown at night if it is well-lit and prominently displayed.
• During ceremonies, the flag may cover a statue or monument being unveiled but should not touch the ground.
• Damaged or soiled flags should be disposed of privately by burning or in a dignified manner.

Don’ts for hoisting the Tricolour

• Do not dip the flag in salute to any person or object.
• Do not fly the flag upside down or in a disrespectful manner.
• Do not allow the flag to touch the ground, floor, or water.
• Do not use the flag for commercial purposes, such as costumes or decorative items, except as permitted.
• Do not use the flag as a covering for buildings, vehicles, or platforms, except in state or military funerals.
• Do not fly the flag alongside or below another flag in a way that reduces its prominence.
• Do not add writing, printing, or marks on the flag.
• Do not use the flag’s design as clothing or accessories below the waist, though flag pins and emblems may be worn respectfully.
• Do not intentionally damage, burn, or mutilate the flag in public, as this is an offence under the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971.
• Do not store the flag in a way that may cause damage.

Flag Code

Under the 2002 amendment to the Flag Code, private citizens can hoist the national flag at homes, offices, or factories, provided the rules are followed. Any violation of the Flag Code or acts that insult the flag are punishable with up to three years’ imprisonment, a fine, or both, under the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971.