Hyderabad : Independence Day celebrations are marked by patriotic fervour, flag hoisting and the display of the Tricolour across the country. But what happens to the National Flag once the celebrations are over?
Seeking to draw public attention to this often-overlooked aspect of patriotism, PR CommUNITY, a platform of PR and Corporate Communications professionals, has invited Shri Priya Ranjan Sarkar of West Bengal, popularly known as the “Flag Man”, to Hyderabad to create awareness about the respectful handling, care and dignified disposal of the Indian National Flag.
The initiative carries a simple but powerful message: CELEBRATION ENDS. RESPECT CONTINUES.
As part of the initiative, representatives of PR CommUNITY and Shri Sarkar will also visit schools to engage with students and create awareness about the correct display, handling and respectful disposal of the National Flag. The objective is to make respect for the Tiranga a habit rather than a once-a-year sentiment.
Shri Priya Ranjan Sarkar has travelled from Howrah to Hyderabad at the invitation of PR CommUNITY as part of its public-awareness initiative on respectful handling of the National Flag.
He is accompanied by his brother Shri Ranabar and interpreter Shri Saikat Banerjee.
Local individuals associated with the initiative, including Mr. Philip Joshua, Dr. Ankit Bhatnagar and D. Ramchandram, among others, participated in the awareness programme and media interaction.
The interaction seeks to draw attention to one simple question: WHAT HAPPENS TO THE TIRANGA AFTER THE CELEBRATION ENDS? The initiative reminds citizens that patriotism does not end when the flag is lowered. The Tiranga deserves respect not only when it flies, but also when its journey ends.
The people behind the initiative said that this programme is only the beginning of a larger and sustained public-awareness effort.
According to Mr. Philip Joshua, Dr. Ankit Bhatnagar and D. Ramchandram, the group had reached out to several individuals and organisations associated with the subject, including Mr. Naveen Jindal, the Flag Foundation of India, defence personnel, Shri Priya Ranjan Sarkar and others who have been actively associated with promoting respect for the National Flag.
The idea was to bring together knowledgeable individuals and experts for a day-long public-awareness workshop on the Indian National Flag, covering its history, significance, proper display, respectful handling and dignified disposal.
“Since the initiative was conceived close to Independence Day and the time available was limited, it was not possible to materialise the larger workshop immediately,” they said.
However, they emphasised that this would not be a one-time initiative. “We intend to continue this public-awareness effort for at least the next two to three years. Our objective is to gradually build greater awareness and encourage citizens, schools, institutions, organisations and communities to understand not only the pride of flying the Tiranga, but also the responsibility of respecting it.”
The group is now planning to organise a full-day public-awareness workshop around Republic Day, bringing together relevant experts, defence personnel, educators, institutions and others associated with the subject.
The proposed programme is expected to focus on: The history and significance of the Indian National Flag ; The Flag Code of India; Proper display and hoisting ; Important dos and don’ts ; Respectful handling of the Tiranga ; Awareness among children and young citizens ; Frequently asked questions and Care, collection and dignified disposal of flags after celebrations
The organisers said the long-term objective is simple: KNOW YOUR TIRANGA. RESPECT YOUR TIRANGA. Because patriotism should not end when the celebration ends.
The people behind the initiative have painstakingly collected information from various sources including the websites https://www.mha.gov.in/en/documents/national-flag-emblem-anthem and https://www.flagfoundationofindia.in/faqs-1 urging people to visit those website, familiarise with the respectfuly handling of the national flag etc.
To reinforce the message visually during the media interaction, the organisers created and displayed a series of placards carrying simple yet powerful messages:
1.
CELEBRATION ENDS. RESPECT CONTINUES. RESPECT THE TIRANGA. ALWAYS.
2.
DON’T THROW THE TIRANGA ON THE GROUND.
3.
COLLECT IT. RESPECT IT. DISPOSE OF IT WITH DIGNITY.
4.
AFTER THE CELEBRATIONS, RESPECT MUST CONTINUE.
5.
FOLLOW THE FLAG CODE OF INDIA AND MINISTRY OF HOME AFFAIRS GUIDANCE.
The entire awareness initiative was built around one core message: THE TIRANGA DESERVES RESPECT NOT ONLY WHEN IT FLIES, BUT ALSO WHEN ITS JOURNEY ENDS. The initiative is a Public Service Initiative by PR CommUNITY.
Shri Priya Ranjan Sarkar, a 39-year-old contract employee of the Government of West Bengal’s Irrigation and Water Works Directorate and a resident of Bally, Howrah, has spent the past 14 years collecting abandoned, discarded and damaged National Flags and ensuring that they are treated with dignity and respect.
His unusual and deeply personal mission has brought him widespread recognition. His story has also been featured in National Geographic India’s Independence Day special documentary Tiranga. He has also been a Padma Shri nominee in the past.
A childhood experience that became a lifelong mission. Shri Sarkar’s journey began when, as a child, he saw his mother pick up a National Flag that had been discarded among rags.
When he asked her why she had done so, she told him that the Tricolour represents the soil of the country and deserves the same respect as one’s own mother. Those words stayed with him.
What began as a personal response to seeing discarded flags has now become a 14-year mission to collect National Flags abandoned after public celebrations and to create greater awareness about respecting the Tricolour even after its ceremonial use is over.
Over the years, Shri Sarkar says he has collected around one lakh discarded Tricolours, many of them found on roadsides, in drains and other places following Independence Day and Republic Day celebrations.
Some flags have been soiled or severely damaged. “I have had to discard many since they were picked from sewage lines. I usually bury such pieces together as they emanate a strong stench when kept at home,” Shri Sarkar has said.
His work is now supported by around 50 volunteers, popularly known as “Maa er Prerona”, who assist him in collecting discarded flags and spreading awareness.
Patriotism does not end when the flag is lowered. Shri Sarkar believes that patriotism should not be confined to Independence Day and Republic Day celebrations.
“People can show respect to their motherland by picking up even one discarded Tricolour. They do not have to collect thousands,” is the message he seeks to convey.
During his Hyderabad visit, he shared practical information with the media and the public on the proper handling, display, storage and dignified disposal of the National Flag, including important dos and don’ts under the Flag Code of India, 2002 and applicable guidelines.
The MHA states that the display, use and hoisting of the National Flag are governed by the Flag Code of India, 2002 and the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971. Its current resource page also provides official FAQs, salient features and the 2022 amendment.
Shri Sarkar particularly appealed to citizens to avoid the indiscriminate use of plastic National Flags, which can become waste after celebrations.
He believes that greater awareness at the community level is needed, including encouraging people to use the National Flag responsibly and ensuring that flags used during celebrations are collected afterwards rather than being left on roads, streets and public spaces.
He also advocates greater awareness among schools, institutions and communities about the importance of treating the National Flag with dignity.
Media Contact: Solus Media, D. Ramchandram, Mobile: 9848042020
BOX 1
THE TIRANGA: KNOW THE RULES. SHOW THE RESPECT.
10 Things Every Citizen Should Know
1. What governs the display of the Tiranga?
The display, use and hoisting of the National Flag are governed by the Flag Code of India, 2002 and the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971.
2. Who can display the National Flag?
A member of the public, private organisation or educational institution may hoist/display the National Flag on all days and occasions, ceremonial or otherwise, subject to maintaining its dignity and honour.
3. Can the Tiranga be flown at night?
Yes. Where the Flag is displayed in the open or on the house of a member of the public, it may be flown day and night.
4. What is the correct proportion?
The National Flag is rectangular and its length-to-height ratio is 3:2.
5. What materials may be used?
The Flag may be made of hand-spun and hand-woven or machine-made cotton, polyester, wool, silk or khadi bunting.
6. Can a damaged Flag be displayed?
No. A damaged or dishevelled National Flag should not be displayed.
7. Where should the Tiranga be placed?
Whenever displayed, the National Flag should occupy the position of honour and should be distinctly placed.
8. Can another flag be placed above the Tiranga?
No. No other flag or bunting should be placed higher than or above the National Flag.
9. Can the Tiranga touch the ground?
No. The National Flag should not be allowed to touch the ground or floor or trail in water.
10. Can the Tiranga be used as decoration?
No. It should not be used as a festoon, rosette, bunting or for decoration.
REMEMBER
The right to display the Tiranga comes with the responsibility to respect it.
Source: Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India — Circular dated 20 July 2022, Salient Features of the Flag Code of India, 2002 and FAQs.
BOX 2
EVERYTHING YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT THE TIRANGA
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I display the National Flag at my home?
Yes. A member of the public may display the National Flag on all days and occasions, ceremonial or otherwise, subject to maintaining its dignity and honour.
Can I fly it at night at home?
Yes. When displayed in the open or on the house of a member of the public, the National Flag may be flown day and night.
What is the correct proportion?
The Flag is rectangular and its length-to-height ratio is 3:2.
Can I display a damaged or dishevelled Flag?
No.
Can I use the Tiranga as decoration?
No. It should not be used as a festoon, rosette, bunting or for decoration.
Can the Tiranga touch the ground?
No. It should not touch the ground or floor or trail in water.
Can I write a slogan or message on the Flag?
No. There should be no lettering on the National Flag.
Can I use the Tiranga on clothing?
The Flag should not be used as a portion of costume, uniform or accessory worn below the waist, nor embroidered or printed on cushions, handkerchiefs, napkins, undergarments or dress material.
Can I display the Tiranga on my car?
The privilege of displaying the National Flag on motor cars is restricted to the dignitaries specified under the Flag Code.
How should a damaged Flag be disposed of?
A damaged National Flag should be destroyed as a whole in private, preferably by burning or by another method consistent with its dignity.
What about small paper flags used by the public?
They should not be discarded on the ground. They should be disposed of privately, keeping in mind the dignity of the National Flag.
What laws protect the National Flag?
The display and use of the National Flag are governed by the Flag Code of India, 2002 and the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971.
BOX 3
RESPECT THE TIRANGA
DOs & DON’Ts
DO
✓ Display it with dignity and honour
✓ Give it the position of honour
✓ Ensure it is clean and in good condition
✓ Follow the Flag Code of India, 2002
✓ Collect discarded paper flags after celebrations
✓ Dispose of damaged flags privately and respectfully
DON’T
✕ Don’t let it touch the ground or floor
✕ Don’t allow it to trail in water
✕ Don’t display a damaged or dishevelled Flag
✕ Don’t use it as decoration, bunting or a festoon
✕ Don’t write letters, slogans or messages on it
✕ Don’t place another flag above or higher than it
✕ Don’t use it to cover a speaker’s desk or platform
✕ Don’t use it as clothing below the waist
✕ Don’t use it to wrap, receive or deliver things
✕ Don’t use it to cover a vehicle
BOX 4
HOW SHOULD NATIONAL FLAGS BE DISPOSED OF AFTER CELEBRATIONS?
1. Collect the flags
Organisers, schools, institutions and volunteers should ensure that National Flags used during celebrations are collected afterwards.
2. Never throw the Tiranga on the ground
Paper National Flags used by the public should not be discarded on the ground.
3. Don’t leave flags in public places
Flags should not be left on roads, footpaths, parks, auditoriums or other public spaces.
4. Dispose of paper flags privately
The MHA guidance states that paper National Flags should be disposed of in private, keeping in mind the dignity of the National Flag.
5. Treat damaged flags with dignity
A damaged National Flag should be destroyed as a whole in private, preferably by burning or by another method consistent with its dignity.
6. Don’t mutilate it for disposal
The Flag should not be casually torn, cut or mutilated merely to make disposal easier.
7. Organise collection drives
Schools, institutions and event organisers can designate volunteers or collection points for collecting discarded flags after celebrations.
8. Create awareness before celebrations
When distributing paper flags, tell people how they should be handled and disposed of afterwards.
9. Remember the small flag
A small paper Tiranga is still a National Flag. Its size does not reduce its dignity.
CELEBRATION ENDS. RESPECT CONTINUES.
The Tiranga deserves respect not only when it flies, but also when its journey ends.
BOX 5
KNOW YOUR TIRANGA.
RESPECT YOUR TIRANGA.
Everything you need to know about the Indian National Flag.
FLAG CODE • FAQs • SALIENT FEATURES • OFFICIAL ADVISORIES
HOW TO HOIST • HOW TO DISPLAY • HOW TO RESPECT • HOW TO DISPOSE WITH DIGNITY
For official information
Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India
For additional FAQs and educational resources
Flag Foundation of India
The Flag Foundation of India describes its mission as nurturing respect and pride for the Indian National Flag and provides a dedicated FAQ resource on the Tiranga
BOX 6
FAQs –Everything you should know about the Tiranga(Source Flag Foundation of India)
01. Is it allowed to fly a miniature National flag inside our car?
Yes, it is allowed to fly a miniature National flag inside your car on the dashboard or windscreen.
02. What is the significance of the Blue colour in our Flag?
The Blue in our flag signifies the boundless sky above and the fathomless sea below. The Blue also implies inner energy. The Chakra with its 24 spokes suggests continual progress of the country.
03. What is the significance of the Ashok Chakra as shown in our Flag?
The wheel has been used since ancient times in India as a solar symbol. In July 1947, the Flag Committee chose the Ashoka’s Dharma Chakra for the reason that amongst all the chakras that came to their mind the & Sarnath Chakra; was most beautiful and artistic. On the flag, it signifies India;s continual progress and growth.
04. Who suggested, the Ashok Chakra in lieu of the Charkha, to the Flag Committee, while adopting the Tiranga in July, 1947?
The Ashok Chakra in place of the Charkha, which was in use earlier during our struggle for freedom, on the flag for Free-India was suggested to the Flag-Committee by Mr. Badr-ud-Din H.F.Tyabji, a Deputy Secretariat in the Constituent Assembly and the grandson of the great Tyabiji who was once the President of the Indian National Congress.
05. What is the ratio of the length to the width of our National-flag?
The ratio of the width to the length of the Flag shall ordinarily be two breadths to three breadths. In other words, the ratio is 2 : 3.
06. When was polyester added as a fabric for the national flag of India?
Polyester was added as an official fabric for the national flag of India in 2022.
07. What type of fabric is to be used for manufacturing Tirangas meant for government offices, its agencies and government officials?
The flags meant to be used on government buildings are to be mandatorily made only of hand-spun cotton, silk, Khadi and polyester.
08.Name the official book / booklet that lays down the Code for the use of our National-flag
It is the Flag Code of India 2002.
09. On what occasions do we fly the National-flag at half-mast?
In the event of death of certain dignitaries recognized by the center/state governments, the National-flag shall be half-mast at certain places and for specified days.
10. Name a few VVIP’S who can fly the National flag on their car?
The President and Prime-Minister of India, Judges of the Supreme Court, Indian Ambassadors appointed in foreign lands, etc. can fly the National-flag on their car.
11. What is the significance of the Green colour in our Flag?
The Green is for growth and also denotes our relation with earth. Hence, it is the colour of vegetation, agriculture and plant life on which all other life depends.
12. Is it allowed to write a patriotic slogan or a message on the face of our National flag?
No, lettering of any kind is not to be put upon the Flag
13. Is it allowed to print, stitch, or embroider the Tiranga as a part of our dress or costume?
Yes, but it should be above the waistline.
14. Is it allowed to embroider or print the image of Tiranga on cushions, handkerchiefs, napkins, or undergarments, etc?
No, it is not allowed nor it is desirable.
15. How is an old, unclean, multilated or torn National-flag disposed off
It is destroyed in whole in private preferably by burning or by any other method consistent with the dignity of the Flag such as burying it deep with respect or by immersing it into the Ganga duly folded.
16. While using the Tiranga on a dead body, how is the Flag placed on the body—horizontally or vertically?
It is placed horizontally on the chest of the deceased. The saffron band is to touch the neck of the body. The flag must not be placed over the body or coffin like a Chadar to avoid touching the feet of the deceased.
17. Can a Judge of a High Court fly the National flag on his/her car?
Yes, the High Court judges can now fly the National flag on their car
18. Is it permissible to hoist the national flag both during day and night at home or workplace?
Yes, You can hoist the national flag both during day and night at your home or workplace.
19. On a day when it is raining heavily do you have to lower the National-flag?
No, the Flag is to fly between sunrise and sunset regardless of weather conditions
20. When was the National-flag for Independent India adopted?
The National Flag of Independent India was adopted by the Constituent Assembly on July 22, 1947.
21. Before Independence during our struggle for freedom where was a tri-colour first hoisted in India?
The first tricolour raised during our struggle for freedom was hoisted on 9th August 1906 in Calcutta (now Kolkata) at the Green Park in Parsi Bagan.
22. Who displayed a tricolour in Germany on 22nd August, 1907 during our struggle for freedom?
Madam Bhikhaji Cama displayed a tricolour at Stuttgart, Germany during an International Congress.
23. Who displayed a tricolour in Germany on 22nd August, 1907 during our struggle for freedom?
Madam Bhikhaji Cama displayed a tricolour at Stuttgart, Germany during an International Congress.
24. In Indian history, there had never been a National-flag for the whole of India. During our struggle for freedom, who first conceived a National-flag for India?
It was Sister Nivedita, an Irish disciple of Swami Vivekananda who first conceived a National-flag for all of India in 1905. The Flag is preserved in the Acharya Bhavan Museum, Kolkata.
25. Who suggested the ‘Charkha’ as a motif to Gandhiji on the flag of the Indian National Congress in 1921?
Lala Hansraj of Jalandhar suggested the inclusion of the;Charkha; (spinning wheel) on the flag of the Indian National Congress to Gandhiji in 1921.
26. Shyamlal Gupta ‘Parshad’, a freedom fighter and poet from Kanpur, wrote the celebrated flag song “Vijayee Vishwa Tiranga Pyara, Jhanda Uncha Rahe Humara
In 1931, the Tricolour flag with Saffron, White and Green stripes and the Charkha in the center was officially adopted as the flag of the Indian National Congress. It was clearly stated that it bore no communal significance.
27. Who wrote the celebrated flag-song “Vijayee Vishwa Tiranga Pyara, Jhanda Uncha Rahe Humara”?
Shyamlal Gupta39;Parshad 39, a freedom fighter and poet from Kanpur, wrote the celebrated flag song;Vijayee Vishwa Tiranga Pyara, Jhanda Uncha Rahe Humara
28. What was the motif (design) on the Tricolour used by Subhash Chandra Bose for his Indian Legion, founded in Berlin, Germany in 1941?
The flag used by Subhash Chandra Bose for his Indian Legion in Berlin had the words;Azad Hind; superimposed on the Springing Tiger motif.
29. When the Tiranga is to be flown with the National-flag of another country, which side will the Tiranga be placed or flown — to the right or to the left?
While flying Tiranga besides another country’s National-flag, it will be placed / flown to the left as one looks at it.
30. After India became an independent State, where did the first outdoor official flag hoisting take place in the world on the 15th of August, 1947? –
The first outdoor official flag hoisting after India became independent took place at the Indian High Commission in Canberra, Australia, on August 15, 1947. It was hoisted by Sir Raghunath Paranjpye, the first High Commissioner of India to Australia.
31. After India became an independent State, where did the first outdoor official flag hoisting take place in the world on the 15th of August, 1947? –
The first outdoor official flag hoisting after India became independent took place at the Indian High Commission in Canberra, Australia, on August 15, 1947. It was hoisted by Sir Raghunath Paranjpye, the first High Commissioner of India to Australia.
33. On the midnight of the 14-15 August, 1947 after declaration of India’s Independence in the Central Hall of the Council House,a lady, Name the lady. –
Hansa Mehta led the group of 72 women and presented the first National Flag of Independent India to Dr. Rajendra Prasad, the Chairman of the Constituent Assembly, on the midnight of August 14-15, 1947.
34. Who said in the Council House on the midnight of the 14th-15th of August, 1947, “It is in the fitness of things that the first flag of free-India that is to fly over this August House should be a gift from the women of India”?
It was Mrs.Hansa Mehta who made this emotional statement, while presenting the first Tiranga to Dr.Rajendra Prasad, the then Chairman of the Constituent Assembly. Mrs. Hansa Mehta.
35. When was Tiranga unfurled for the first time on the ramparts of the Red Fort after Independence?
The first public flag hoisting took place at the Princess Park near India Gate, New Delhi in the afternoon of 15th of August 1947. Pandit Jawahar Lal Nehru did the honour of hoisting the Tiranga.
36. How many colours are there in our National flag?
The first public flag hoisting took place at the Princess Park near India Gate, New Delhi in the afternoon of 15th of August 1947. Pandit Jawahar Lal Nehru did the honour of hoisting the Tiranga.
37. What are the official names of the Saffron and Green, the two principal colours used in our National-flag?
The official name for saffron is; India-Saffron; and for green it is; India-Green ;. While describing the colours of our flag to any international organization, the two colours are to be described and specified as explained because the two colours have many shades. Hence, we specify the two colours as India-Saffron and India-Green.
38. Indian National FlagWhat is the significance of the White colour in our Flag ?
The White in Tiranga stands for purity. It is symbolic of the sun’s rays and thus denotes the path of light.
39. In case of death of a VVIP on 25th January or 14th August, or 1st October and a 7 day state mouring is declared, will the Flag fly half-mast the next day on 26th of January, 15th August, or 2nd October as the case may be?
No, in a such a case, the Flag will fly full-mast on 26th January, the Republic Day similarly on 15th August, the Independence Day and on the Gandhi Jayanti Day.
40. When was tha image of the Tiranga first used on an Indian Postal Stamp?
On 21st November, 1947, but it was dated 15th August, 1947.
41. When is Armed Forces Flag Day celebrated in India?
Armed Forces Flag Day is celebrated on December 7 every year in India
42. When is Flag Adoption Day celebrated in India?
Flag Adoption Day in India is celebrated on July 22 every year. This date commemorates the day in 1947 when the Constituent Assembly of India adopted the national flag, which was designed by Pingali Venkaiah
43. Why are all merchant ships and men-of war (naval ships) required to fly the national-flag while on high sea?
To indicate their nationality for their identification on the high sea.
44. Is it allowed that all Indian airports, seaports, and lighthouses, etc. are required to fly the National flag?
Yes, the Tiranga is to be flown on these buildings
45. Where was the first 207 feet high monumental flagpole installed in India?
At Hanuman Vatika, Kaithal in Haryana (2009).
46. Till 1958, four Tirangas used to simultaneously fly daily on the building of the Sansad Bhawan. Now only three Tirangas are flown on the August building. Which office of the Government of India did the fourth flag belong to?
To the Supreme Court of India. Till 1958 the Supreme Court of India was housed in the Sansad Bhawan. Then it moved to its present location at Tilak Marg, New Delhi.
47. When was the Tiranga first hoisted at the Headquarter of the United Nations?
On 15th August 1947 when India became Independent.
48. Indian National FlagWhat is the stadard size of the flag used on the train and areoplanes used by the President and Prime Minister of India?
The standard size of President’s train-flag and aeroplane-flags used by the President and Prime Minister of India is “18×12” or (450x300mm).
49. What is the standard size of a car flag?
The standard size of a car flag is “9×6” (225x150mm).
50. What is the standard size of a table flag? –
The standard size of a table flag is “6 x 4” (150x100mm).
51. How are the National-flags flown on VVIP’s cars/ planes/trains different from other flags?
The National-flags flown on VVIP’s cars and on the train and aeroplanes used by the President and the Prime Minister of India are made with double bunting to prevent damage as they flap frequently and vigorously whereas other flags are made of single bunting.
52. What do you understand by the term “Flag-march”?
A march by the armed or para-military forces through the streets of any tension torn towns/ cities, etc. with a view to caution people against violence and to urge them to maintain peace, is called a flag march.
53. When was the image of the Tiranga first used on a commemorative coin?
On 15th August, 1947.
54. When you visit the Rashtrapati Bhawan or a Raj Bhawan and find that the Tiranga is not flying on the building, what does this signify?
It means that the Rashtrapati or the Rajyapal is not in the Bhawan or that he/ she is away on tour
55. What acts by any person, will constitute an insult or disrespect to our National-flag?
Any one in any public place or in any other place within public view burns, mutilates, defaces, defiles, disfigures, destroys, tramples upon or otherwise shows disrespect to the National-flag shall be deemed to have caused insult and disrespect to the Flag.
56. When state mourning is declared by the Government on the death of a VVIP are the members of public supposed to fly the Flag at halfmast?
No, the general public is not supposed to half-mast the flag; however, they may do so at their discretion. It is so because the Flag is to be half-masted only on Govt. buildings on receiving instructions from the Government. Since no instructions are issued to public to half-mast the flag, members of public are not obliged to do so.q1`
57. As per convention all jail buildings are supposed to fly the National-flag. After an execution of a prisoner in a particular jail, how will the Flag fly—half-mast or full-mast on the day?
The flag will fly full-mast on the jail building after execution of a prisoner
58. When a foreign dignitary travels in a car provided by the Government of India or by a State Govern-ment, on which side of the car will the Indian National-flag be flown?
On the right side of the car and on the left side, the National-flag of the dignitry’s country will be flown.
59. When our National-flag is flown with the United Nation’s Flag, on which side of it will the Tiranga fly?
When the Tiranga is flown besides the UN Flag, it can be flown on either side of it. Tiranga may be flown on either side of the UN Flag.
60. When was the Tiranga first flown on the Mount Everest?
On 29th May 1953 when the world-famous highest peak was scaled for the first time. Tiranga along with the UN, Union Jack and the fish-tailed Nepalese National-flag was flown on the Mount Everest.
61. Name the Indian, who planted the Tiranga for the first time on the North Pole?
Squadron Leader Sanjay Thapa planted the Tiranga for the first time at the North Pole on 6th August, 1997.
62. Name the Indian who planted the Tiranga on the South pole?
Col. J.K.Bajaj planted the Tiranga for the first time on the South Pole on 17th January, 1989.
63. When was the Tiranga first flown into the outer space?
In 1971, the Indian Tricolor travelled into the outer space for the first-time on-board Apollo-15.
64. When was Tiranga first planted at the Dakshin Gangotri in Antarctica?
On 9th January 1982, the first Indian Antarctica Expedition planted the Indian Flag at the Dakshin Gangotri.
65. Name the scuba diver who displayed the Tiranga under water for the first time at a depth of 18 meters in Andaman & Nicobar Islands?
Mrs. Archana Sardana, displayed the National-flag Tiranga under water at 18mtrs depth off the Neil Island, Andaman and Nicobar Islands on 14th January, 2011.
66. Under which Act is an offence committed against the National-flag, punishable?
Offences committed against the National-flag of India are punishable under the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act-1971.
67. Which Act prohibits the use of the National flag for commercial purposes?
The Emblems and Names (Preventation of Improper Use Act,-1950)
68. What punishment can be awarded to a person or persons for committing an offence against the National-flag?
Any person who causes insult to the National-flag Tiranga shall be punished with imprisonment for a term which may extend to three years or with a fine or with both.
69. Earlier, the President of India and the State Governors had their personal flags. Since when did the President of India and the State Governors start flying the National-flag on their respective residence and car?
Since 1972, when the Privy-Purse was abolished in India.
70. What is the difference between a flag and National-flag?
A flag is a piece of cloth attached to a flagpole, representing a clan, community, army, office of authority, industrial house or an individual. On the contrary, a National-flag is more than a piece of cloth. It is the most solemn and constitutionally or traditionally authorized symbol of a country. It represents the whole country, the entire nation, its ideals, hopes, aspirations and the pride. People throughout the history of mankind have laid down life for their National-flag, as it is the strongest patriotic symbol.
71. Who prepared a tricolour flag as per Gandhi’s directions in 1921 at the Vijayawada Congress Session?
It was Pingali Venkaiah, who designed the first ever “Charkha-Jhanda” in white, green and red as per the instructions of Gandhiji in 1921 at Bijawada (now Vijayawada).
72. Who wrote the book “A National Flag for India”?
Pingali Venkaiah, who was greatly enthused about designing a flag for the whole of India
73. Who founded the Flag Foundation of India?
The Flag Foundation of India (FFOI) was founded on 3rd June 2003 by Naveen Jindal following his landmark legal victory affirming citizens’ right to display the National Flag. The Foundation works to promote respect and pride in the Tiranga.