Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath announced on November 10, 2025, that singing the national song “Vande Mataram” will be made compulsory in all schools and educational institutions across the state.
The decision, announced at an ‘Ekta Yatra’ event in Gorakhpur, aims to instil respect, unity, and pride among citizens for Bharat Mata and the motherland.
Yogi emphasized that this initiative will help strengthen nationalism and cultural values in young minds, while also warning against forces that threaten national unity. The move follows nationwide celebrations marking 150 years of the song.
“Every Indian should feel proud to sing Vande Mataram. It reflects our spirit of nationalism and connects us with the soul of Mother India,” CM Yogi Adityanath said.
Historical Significance of “Vande Mataram
“Vande Mataram” is a Sanskritised Bengali poem written by Bankim Chandra Chatterjee in 1875. It originally appeared in the literary journal Bangadarshan on November 7, 1875, and later became a part of his novel Anandamath, published in 1882.
The song evokes deep patriotism towards the motherland and became a symbolic anthem during India’s struggle for independence. Its first public performance was by Rabindranath Tagore at the 1896 Indian National Congress session held in Calcutta, marking the beginning of its role as a rallying cry for freedom fighters.Over time, it gained prominence across India during movements like Swadeshi and Quit India.
The Indian Constituent Assembly formally adopted “Vande Mataram” as the national song on January 24, 1950, giving it a status alongside the national anthem. However, only the opening two stanzas are widely used today to maintain inclusivity and avoid devotional references in later verses. The song’s legacy remains a powerful symbol of India’s unity and patriotism.
Implementation and Official Statements
Yogi Adityanath declared that all schools and colleges in Uttar Pradesh must include the recital of “Vande Mataram” in their daily routine to cultivate patriotism and national integrity. Speaking at the event, he stressed the importance of identifying and countering elements that may weaken Indian unity.
Education authorities have been directed to implement the policy swiftly across government and private institutions. The Chief Minister also praised figures like Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, linking their legacy to the spirit of the song.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
While nurturing patriotism is important, The Logical Indian believes such policies must preserve India’s pluralistic and secular ethos. Education should foster unity and understanding among diverse communities without becoming a platform for political or ideological agendas. Encouraging shared values and respect can build cohesive societies.
