Republic Day 2025: Planning to unfurl the national flag? Here are the dos and don'ts along with the flag code you should remember

India will commemorate its 76th Republic Day January 26. The Republic Day celebrations will take place on Kartavya Path, marking a significant milestone in India's history when the Constitution was adopted on January 26, 1950. Republic Day marks the historic moment when India’s Constitution came into effect, replacing the Government of India Act, 1935, and establishing the country as a republic. The Constitution was finalized by the Constituent Assembly on November 26, 1949, and adopted two months later on January 26, 1950.

Republic Day Celebrations included flag unfurling at schools, offices, and public areas nationwide. The flag's saffron represents "courage, sacrifice, the spirit of renunciation and the dedication and commitment of the people towards the country's well-being." White symbolizes "truth, peace, purity," reflecting hope for unity. Green stands for "growth, fertility, prosperity," and faith in sustainable development. The Ashoka Chakra, a 24-spoke wheel, signifies the "eternal cycle of life and death" and guides national actions.

If you are also planning to unfurl national flag on Republic day, here are few points you should remember.

National Flag Code

The Flag Code of India, amended in 2002 and further revised in 2021, allows citizens to hoist the National Flag at their homes. The amendment also permits the use of machine-made or polyester flags.

Key provisions of the Flag Code include:

• The National Flag must be rectangular, with a length-to-width ratio of 3:2.
• Damaged or disheveled flags should not be displayed.
• The Flag should occupy the position of honor and be distinctly placed.
• It should not be flown on vehicles except those of dignitaries like the President, Vice-President, and Prime Minister.

The Bureau of Indian Standards and the Flag Code of India provide guidelines for flag handling, emphasizing respect. Citizens are allowed to fly the flag on their property. The flag should be hoisted briskly and lowered slowly, never touching the ground. It should not be used as clothing or displayed if damaged. It should be flown from sunrise to sunset and illuminated if flown at night. When not in use, the flag should be folded into a triangle and stored respectfully.

Do’s:

• Citizens, private organisations, and educational institutions may hoist the flag on all days, adhering to its dignity and honour.
• Educational institutions are encouraged to hoist the flag to inspire respect.
• National and cultural occasions such as Independence Day should feature the flag prominently.
• The saffron band must always be at the top during hoisting.
• When not in use, the flag should be folded neatly in a triangular shape.
• Proper protocol should be followed for hoisting and lowering the flag, including saluting it during these actions.

Don’ts:

• The flag must not touch the ground, water, or be used as clothing or decoration.
• It cannot be used for communal purposes or as a tablecloth, handkerchief, or disposable item.
• The flag should not be flown at half-mast unless directed by the government.
• It must not be defaced, crumpled, or stored haphazardly.
• Objects like flowers or emblems should not be placed on or above the flag.