Bhubaneswar, Aug 4: The Odisha Government has directed all schools in the state to sing 'Vande Mataram' before the National Anthem 'Jana Gana Mana' during school functions and assemblies, in line with the Centre's latest guidelines.

The School and Mass Education Department has issued instructions to all District Education Officers (DEOs) to ensure strict compliance with the directive. The Home Department has also communicated the guidelines to all District Collectors and Superintendents of Police for effective implementation.

The state government has enclosed a copy of the Ministry of Home Affairs' guidelines issued on July 9, which state that whenever both the National Song and the National Anthem are performed at any official programme, 'Vande Mataram' must be sung first, followed by 'Jana Gana Mana'.

The guidelines further emphasise that the original lyrics, pronunciation and rendition of both songs must be followed accurately. Schools have also been encouraged to conduct the National Anthem collectively during the morning prayer assembly to instil respect for the National Flag, National Anthem and National Song among students.

The government has instructed that everyone must stand in the attention position while the National Anthem is being sung as a mark of respect. Officials said the initiative aims to strengthen patriotism and foster a greater sense of national pride among school students.