Archive · 13 Aug 2026
Respectfully handle Indian National Flag after Independence Day
After Independence Day, lots of people in India have Tricolour flags at home.
The flag is very important, so the Flag Code of India has rules about how to take care of it.
You should lower it slowly and carefully, and never let it touch the ground or water.
The flag should be kept clean and dry and stored in a safe, dry place.
Folding it neatly with the Ashoka Chakra visible is a common respectful way to put it away.
If the flag becomes old, torn, or stained, you cannot just throw it in the bin.
It should be destroyed privately and with dignity, for example by burning it.
The flag must not be used as a decoration, a costume, or printed on things like cushions.
Even small paper flags should not be left on roads or in drains.
These rules help everyone treat the flag with respect all year long.
The Flag Code of India sets out rules for displaying, handling, cleaning and storing the National Flag.
A damaged or soiled flag must not be thrown away; it should be destroyed as a whole in private, preferably by burning or another dignified method.
The Tricolour should be lowered slowly and ceremoniously and must never be allowed to touch the ground, floor or water.
The National Flag cannot be used as a festoon, rosette, bunting, drapery, costume, or printed on cushions, handkerchiefs or napkins.
Under the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971, publicly insulting the flag can attract up to three years in prison, a fine, or both.
- Who
- Indian citizens and households who display the Tricolour after Independence Day
- What
- Guidance on how to respectfully lower, fold, store, display and dispose of the Indian National Flag after Independence Day
- When
- After Independence Day, August 15 (the article addresses Independence Day 2026)
- Where
- India, including homes, balconies, schools, offices and neighbourhoods
- Why
- To follow the Flag Code of India and ensure the National Flag is never damaged, soiled or disrespectfully discarded
- Occasion
- Independence Day 2026 (August 15)
- Governing document
- Flag Code of India
- Damaged flag disposal
- Destroyed as a whole in private, preferably by burning or another dignified method
- Folding method
- Bands folded inward with the Ashoka Chakra visible; saffron band on top
- Storage
- Clean, dry place away from moisture, dirt and pests
- Decorations
- Flag cannot be used as festoon, rosette, bunting, drapery, costume or printed on cushions and napkins
- Penalty law
- Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971
- Maximum penalty
- Imprisonment of up to three years, a fine, or both