Flag of India

National Flag of the Republic of India

Basic Information

The national flag of India is commonly known as the Tiranga, meaning “Tricolour.” It has an official length-to-width ratio of 3:2.

The flag consists of three equal horizontal bands: India saffron at the top, white in the middle, and green at the bottom. A navy-blue Ashoka Chakra, featuring 24 evenly spaced spokes, appears in the center of the white band.

The Constituent Assembly officially adopted the flag on July 22, 1947. It came into use on Independence Day, August 15, 1947, and remained the national flag after India became a republic.

Symbolism

1. India Saffron: Symbolizes courage, sacrifice, dedication, and strength.
2. White: Represents truth, purity, and peace and expresses the hope that India’s diverse communities will coexist harmoniously.
3. Green: Symbolizes life, prosperity, faith, fertile land, and hope for continued development.
4. Ashoka Chakra: The 24-spoked wheel is derived from the Lion Capital of Ashoka and represents dharma, justice, and moral law. Its 24 spokes are also commonly associated with the 24 hours of the day, symbolizing continuous movement and national progress.

Main Uses

Government Institutions

The flag is flown at Rashtrapati Bhavan, Parliament, the Supreme Court, state government buildings, border checkpoints, and other public institutions.

It is traditionally raised at sunrise and lowered at sunset. Where permitted, it may be displayed continuously for 24 hours, subject to applicable flag regulations.

Diplomatic Use

The flag is displayed at Indian embassies, consulates, and official seats at international conferences to represent India’s sovereignty and national identity.

Military Use

It is used at military installations and aboard naval vessels and military aircraft. It also serves as a national symbol during military parades, oaths of allegiance, and official ceremonies.

The coffins of eligible military personnel, senior officials, and other individuals honored with state or military funerals may be draped with the national flag.

National Celebrations and Mourning

The flag is flown nationwide on major national occasions, including:

• Republic Day — January 26
• Independence Day — August 15

During official periods of national mourning, it may be flown at half-mast in accordance with government instructions. It is also used during state funeral ceremonies.

Official Vehicles

Small vehicle-mounted national flags may be displayed on the official vehicles of the president, vice president, and other specifically authorized dignitaries.

Civilian Uses

Individuals may display the flag at homes, businesses, sporting events, patriotic gatherings, and public celebrations, particularly on Independence Day and Republic Day. The flag’s dignity must always be maintained.

Schools and community organizations also raise it on important commemorative days as part of civic and patriotic education.

The flag design may appear on certain souvenirs and printed products, subject to applicable regulations. Defacing, damaging, trampling, or disrespecting the flag is prohibited under Indian law and may result in fines or imprisonment.

Maritime Use

Indian merchant ships display the appropriate national ensign while sailing to indicate the vessel’s nationality.

Key Rules of Flag Etiquette

1. The flag must never be displayed upside down. The saffron band must always be at the top when displayed horizontally.
2. It must not touch the ground, floor, water, or any dirty surface.
3. It must not be used as a tablecloth, covering, drapery, or vehicle body covering.
4. Faded or damaged flags must not be discarded casually and should be destroyed privately and respectfully in accordance with applicable rules.
5. During flag-raising and lowering ceremonies, uniformed personnel should salute, while civilians should stand respectfully at attention.
6. No words, lettering, images, or additional symbols may be written, printed, or placed on the flag.