☑️Flag Code of India :-
The Flag Code of India, 2002 lays down rules regarding the display, use and hoisting of the National Flag. It came into effect on 26 January 2002.
1. Who can hoist the National Flag?
Every citizen can hoist/display the National Flag with dignity and honour.
Earlier, restrictions were greater. The Flag Code was liberalised to allow citizens to display the flag.
2. Important rules
The National Flag should be rectangular, with a ratio of 3:2.
It has three horizontal bands:
Saffron – top
White – middle
Green – bottom
Ashoka Chakra: navy blue, with 24 spokes, in the centre of the white band.
The flag should not touch the ground or floor.
It should not be used as clothing, bedding or drapery.
It should not be used to cover a statue, monument or building.
Nothing should be placed/written on the National Flag.
The flag should not be displayed in a damaged or dishevelled condition.
3. Can the flag be displayed at night?
Yes.
The Flag Code was amended in 2022 to allow the National Flag to be displayed both day and night, provided it is properly illuminated when displayed at night.
4. Can it be made of polyester?
Yes.
The 2021 amendment expanded the permitted material to include machine-made and polyester flags, in addition to the earlier prescribed materials.
5. Half-mast
The National Flag is flown at half-mast as a mark of mourning only on occasions determined by the Government of India.
An individual cannot decide on their own to fly the National Flag at half-mast.
6. Important distinction for UPSC
Flag Code ≠ Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971
The Flag Code primarily deals with rules of display and use.
The Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971 deals with punishment for disrespect/insult to the National Flag and certain other national symbols.
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