The National Flag of India has got immense importance. The national flag of free India was first adopted by the Constituent Assembly on 22 July 1947.
Every independent country has its even national flag. It is a price-less possession of the state that be speaks it sovereignty. The state expects all citizens to keep the honour of its flag. The national flag of India reflects in every way the hopes and inspirations enshrined in our constitution.
The National Flag of India epitomizes its civilization and culture, heritage and freedom. The Indian national flag is a tricolor. It consists of three bears Saffron at the top, white in the middle dark and green at the bottom. Saffron is the symbol sacrifice and selfishness. The white colour in the middle stands for piety, purity, truth and simplicity. It reminds us that we Indian must he pure, and truthful at heart and simple in manners. Green stands for youth and energy. The Ashoke Chakra at the centre symbolizes the cult of Ashinsa, and the never ending activities in the country for its progress.
The Indian, one and all, honour their national flag and rally round it. It is usually flown on all Government buildings, High Courts, Secretariats, and Collectorates etc. On days of national importance, Independence, or Republic Day, the flag is seen fluttering on every house-tops; we also sometimes find these flags in the hands of demonstrators marching along the streets. It is kept at half must on the days of national mourning.
There are certain rules against the misuse of the national flag. Some of the most important of these are as follows
- Flag should not be lowered before anything
- It is to be borne on the right shoulder of the standard bearer and carried in front of the procession,
- No other flag should be placed above the national flag or to its right.
- When the flag is horizontal, the saffron end should be at the top.
The National Flag reminds us of the sacrifices made by our freedom-fighters to earn us freedom. We should up-hold its glory and honour by all means within our power. If necessary, we should defend the honor of the flag with the last drop of our blood. It is our duty and responsibility to honor the flag as it constantly reminds us of our hard earned freedom.