What Is the Flag Code of India?

The Flag Code of India, 2002 is the comprehensive set of rules that governs the display, use, and handling of the Indian national flag — the Tiranga. It came into effect on 26 January 2002, consolidating and replacing earlier instructions under the Emblems and Names (Prevention of Improper Use) Act, 1950 and the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971.

The Flag Code is divided into three parts covering: general rules, display by private citizens and organisations, and display by government and constitutional bodies.

Who Can Display the Flag?

A landmark amendment in 2002 allowed ordinary citizens to fly the national flag at their homes and establishments on all days of the year, not just on national holidays. Prior to this, only certain occasions allowed public display. This was further reinforced by the Har Ghar Tiranga campaign launched in 2022, encouraging every household to hoist the flag.

Rules for Displaying the Flag

Correct Orientation

  • The saffron band must always be at the top when the flag is displayed horizontally or vertically.
  • When displayed vertically, the saffron band should be to the right (from the viewer's perspective, i.e., to the left of the flag).
  • The Ashoka Chakra must be centred in the white band and visible on both sides.

Flagpole and Positioning

  • The flag must be flown from a prominent position and should not be overshadowed by other flags or decorative material.
  • When displayed alongside other flags (state, organisational), the national flag must be placed to the right (from the marching/speaker's right) and must be the tallest.
  • No other flag or emblem shall be placed above the national flag.

Condition of the Flag

  • The flag must always be in a clean and undamaged condition. A torn, faded, or soiled flag must not be displayed.
  • Damaged flags must be disposed of privately and with dignity — ideally by burning or burying in a respectful manner.

Material

As per the Flag Code, the national flag must be made of hand-spun and hand-woven Khadi (wool, cotton, or silk). Machine-made or synthetic flags are not permitted for official use. However, a 2022 amendment permitted machine-made polyester flags for the Har Ghar Tiranga initiative.

What Is NOT Allowed

  • The flag must not be dipped to salute any person or thing.
  • It must not touch the ground, water, or trail in any manner.
  • The flag must not be used as a tablecloth, drape, or covering for a platform, vehicle, or building (except authorised state occasions).
  • It must not be used on uniforms, costumes, or embroidered onto cushions, handkerchiefs, or other clothing below the waist.
  • The flag must not be used for commercial or advertising purposes.
  • No writing, lettering, or images may be placed on or over the flag.
  • The flag must not be stored in such a way that it can be damaged or soiled.

Half-Mast Display

The national flag is flown at half-mast only on occasions of national mourning, as directed by the Government of India. The flag is first hoisted to the top and then slowly lowered to the half-mast position. At the end of the day, it is again raised to the top before being lowered fully. Only certain government buildings are authorised to fly the flag at half-mast.

The Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971

This act makes it a criminal offence to burn, mutilate, deface, or use the national flag in a disrespectful manner. The penalty can include imprisonment of up to three years, a fine, or both. The act also covers the national anthem and the Indian Constitution.

Displaying the Flag at Night

A significant 2022 amendment to the Flag Code now permits the flag to be flown day and night — previously it could only be displayed from sunrise to sunset. This change was made to facilitate the Har Ghar Tiranga campaign and to allow permanent institutional displays.

Respecting the Tiranga Is a Civic Duty

The national flag represents every Indian citizen. Displaying it correctly, treating it with dignity, and understanding the rules around it are not bureaucratic obligations — they are expressions of genuine patriotism and civic pride. When in doubt, always err on the side of respect.