The Flag Code of India – A Simple Guide for Kids

Introduction

The National Flag of India, often called the Tricolour¹, is a special symbol of our country. It’s more than just a piece of cloth; it represents the dreams, struggles, and achievements of millions of people. This flag reminds us of our country’s history and the values we hold dear, such as freedom, unity, and peace.

In this guide, we’ll learn about the National Flag of India, including how to treat it with respect, the meaning behind its colors, and the rules for displaying it. By understanding these things, we can honor our flag and what it stands for.

What is the National Flag?

The Indian National Flag is a beautiful rectangle divided into three equal horizontal bands:

• Top Band – Saffron (Orange): The top band is saffron, a bright orange color. This color stands for courage and sacrifice². It reminds us of the bravery of those who fought for our country’s freedom.
• Middle Band – White: The middle band is white. White represents peace, purity, and truth³. It symbolizes our hope for a world where people live together harmoniously.
• Bottom Band – Green: The bottom band is green, which signifies growth, prosperity⁴, and the natural beauty of our country. It reflects the importance of nature and the land.

In the center of the white band is the Ashoka Chakra⁵, a navy blue wheel with 24 spokes. The Ashoka Chakra represents the eternal wheel of law and justice. It’s named after Emperor Ashoka, who was known for his principles of peace and fairness.

How to Display the National Flag

Displaying the National Flag correctly is very important because it shows respect for our country. Here are some simple rules to follow:

• Respect the Flag: Always treat the flag with great respect. It should never touch the ground, be used to cover anything, or be thrown away carelessly. If the flag gets damaged, it should be disposed of properly by burning it in a dignified manner.
• Position of the Flag: When you’re displaying the flag, make sure it is in a place of honor. If it’s being shown alongside other flags, the Indian flag should be at the highest point and to the right of other flags. This shows that it is the most important flag.
• Time of Display: The flag should be hoisted⁶ in the morning and lowered in the evening. It should not be displayed in the dark unless it is properly illuminated⁷. This means that if you’re flying the flag at night, it should be lit up so it can be seen clearly.
• Clean and Intact: The flag should always be clean and in good condition. If it becomes torn or worn out, it should be repaired or replaced. A damaged flag should not be displayed because it can be seen as disrespectful.
• No Decorations: The flag should not have any decorations or writing on it. It should remain plain and simple, as this maintains its dignity.

When Can You Fly the National Flag?

You can fly the National Flag on any day, not just on special occasions. It’s a great way to show your pride in your country. It can be displayed at schools, homes, offices, and public places. Remember to follow the rules mentioned earlier to show proper respect for the flag.

Special days to display the flag include:

• Independence Day (August 15): Celebrates India’s freedom from British rule in 1947.
• Republic Day (January 26): Marks the day when India adopted its Constitution⁸ in 1950.
• Gandhi Jayanti (October 2): Honors the birthday of Mahatma Gandhi, the leader of the Indian independence movement.

Fun Facts About the Indian Flag

• The Design: The flag was designed by Pingali Venkayya, a freedom fighter from Andhra Pradesh. His design was chosen as the official flag of India in 1947.
• The Ashoka Chakra: The Ashoka Chakra in the middle of the flag is inspired by the Ashoka Pillar⁹, which stands in Sarnath, Uttar Pradesh. It was built by Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BCE.
• First Hoisting: The first time the Indian National Flag was hoisted was on August 7, 1906, in Kolkata. It was a symbol of the Indian independence movement.
• The Flag’s Colors: The colors of the flag have deep meanings. Saffron represents courage, white symbolizes peace, and green stands for prosperity.
• Flag Day: December 7 is celebrated as Flag Day in India to promote the importance of the flag and to honor those who have served the nation.

General Knowledge

Did you know? The Indian National Flag is also called the Tricolour because it has three colors. The Ashoka Chakra in the center is not just a beautiful design; it represents the eternal wheel of law and justice¹⁰, reminding us of our duty to follow the path of righteousness.

The Ashoka Chakra on the flag is based on the wheel on the Ashoka Pillar, which was built by Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BCE. This pillar is an important historical monument in India and symbolizes the principles of peace and truth.

Footnotes

Here are some unique words used in this document, along with their meanings:

Tricolour: A flag with three different colors.

Courage: The ability to do something brave, even when you’re scared.

Prosperity: Being successful and having a lot of things you need.

Sacrifice: To give up something valuable for a greater cause.

Ashoka Chakra: The navy blue wheel in the center of the flag, representing the eternal wheel of law and justice.

Hoisted: To raise something, especially a flag, up into the air.

Illuminated: To light up something.

Constitution: A set of fundamental principles according to which a state is governed.

Ashoka Pillar: A historical monument built by Emperor Ashoka, symbolizing peace and righteousness.

Eternal: Lasting forever.

Principles: Basic rules or laws that guide behavior.

Dignified: Showing seriousness and respect.

Comprehend: To understand something fully.

Symbolizes: To represent something with a symbol or sign.

Guidelines: Rules or instructions to help people do the right thing.