History of the Tiranga

• Detail the journey of the Indian National Flag, mentioning:
  • Pre-Independence Flags: How the first versions were introduced in the early 20th century and why they evolved.
  • Final Design by Pingali Venkayya: His role in designing the flag, and how it was first adopted in 1947.
  • Adoption Date: Detail that the current flag was officially adopted on July 22, 1947.

Meaning Behind the Colors and Symbol

• Explain the significance of each color and the Ashoka Chakra:
  • Saffron (Top Band): Courage and sacrifice.
  • White (Middle Band): Truth, peace, and purity.
  • Green (Bottom Band): Faith, fertility, and prosperity.
  • Ashoka Chakra: The Dharma Chakra with 24 spokes represents righteousness.

Respecting the Tiranga

1. Proper Display

• Positioning: The flag should always be displayed in a position of prominence and honor, ideally on a higher pole than other flags if flown alongside.
• Orientation: The saffron band must always be on top if the flag is horizontal, and on the observer’s left if the flag is displayed vertically.
• Hoisting on Buildings: The flag should always be hoisted briskly and lowered slowly with respect.

2. Handling and Care

• No Ground Contact: The Tiranga should never touch the ground or be allowed to get dirty or damaged.
• Material: Only flags made from khadi or hand-spun fabric are permitted.
• Disposal: When the flag becomes damaged, it must be disposed of with dignity, preferably by private burning or burying in a respectful manner.

3. Specific Usage Guidelines

• Not to Be Used as Clothing or Decor: The flag cannot be used as an item of clothing, drapery, or for any kind of personal decoration.
• No Writing or Printing: The Tiranga should not have any inscriptions, slogans, or symbols added to it.
• Prohibited as a Costume or Uniform: The flag should not be incorporated into costumes or uniforms, including on garments like t-shirts or headbands.

4. Timing and Occasions

• Daily and Special Occasions: Citizens may fly the Tiranga on any day, per the Flag Code amendment of 2002. However, it should be flown from sunrise to sunset.
• Half-Mast: The flag can be flown at half-mast as a mark of respect during a national day of mourning, with approval from the central government.

5. Respect During National Anthem

• Protocol: Whenever the national anthem is played or sung in the flag’s presence, citizens should stand in respectful silence.

6. Legal Penalties

• Violations: Improper use or disrespect of the flag can result in legal action under the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971.

Interesting Facts About the Tiranga

• The Tiranga can only be made of khadi or hand-spun cloth.
• The specific dimensions and ratios are crucial to its authenticity.
• Displaying the flag is a matter of pride and follows strict guidelines.

Join in Celebrating the Spirit of India

Share your Tiranga stories, celebrate flag hoisting along with a hashtag like #ProudOfTiranga, or join a community event.