National Flag Day 2026
Why in News?
India celebrates National Flag Day on 22nd July to commemorate the adoption of the Indian national flag by the Constituent Assembly in 1947, a few weeks before Independence on 15th August. The day honours the symbolism of national pride, unity, and freedom struggle.
Adoption of the National Flag
On 22nd July 1947, the Constituent Assembly, chaired by Dr. Rajendra Prasad, officially adopted the national flag.
- Resolution Moved By: Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru
- Design: Horizontal tricolour of deep saffron (Kesari), white, and dark green in equal proportion.
- Central Emblem: Navy blue Ashoka Chakra (Wheel) in the center of the white band, diameter equal to the width of the white band.
- Flag Ratio: Width to length ordinarily 2:3.
The adoption symbolised the end of British rule and India’s commitment to freedom and nation-building.
Flag Code of India, 2002
The Flag Code of India regulates the display, use, and disposal of the national flag.
Key Provisions
- The flag must be prominently displayed and occupy a position of honour.
- Tattered or unkempt flags must be burned in private; they cannot be exhibited.
- Approved disposal: Burning or burying, done with dignity.
- No other flags shall be flown from the same masthead simultaneously.
- The national flag must always be rectangular; length-to-width ratio 3:2.
Recent Amendments
- 2021: Allowed polyester or machine-made flags.
- 2022: Permits flying the flag day and night.
These changes ensure easier manufacturing, widespread accessibility, and modern usage while respecting traditions and protocol.
Significance
National Flag Day educates citizens about:
- National symbols and their meanings
- Respect for the Constitution and national identity
- Flag etiquette under the Flag Code of India
- Historical context of India’s freedom struggle
It strengthens patriotism, civic responsibility, and awareness of the laws governing national symbols.
National Flag Day-FAQs Answered
When is National Flag Day observed in India?
National Flag Day is observed every year on 22nd July, commemorating the adoption of the Indian national flag by the Constituent Assembly in 1947.
Who moved the resolution for adopting the Indian national flag?
The resolution for the Indian national flag was moved by Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru and adopted by the Constituent Assembly chaired by Dr. Rajendra Prasad.
What is the design of the Indian national flag?
The flag consists of a horizontal tricolour of deep saffron (Kesari), white, and dark green in equal proportion, with a navy blue Ashoka Chakra in the center of the white band.
What is the Flag Code of India, 2002?
The Flag Code of India regulates the display, usage, and disposal of the national flag, including provisions for respect, approved disposal (burning or burying), and no other flag on the same masthead.
What were the recent amendments to the Flag Code of India?
- 2021: Allowed polyester or machine-made flags
- 2022: Permits flying the flag day and night while maintaining proper respect and protocol.
