The West Bengal School Education Department has made the singing of ‘Vande Mataram’ compulsory during assembly prayers in all government, government-aided, and sponsored schools. This crucial directive was issued today, May 14, 2026, by the administrative wing at Bikash Bhavan.
Signed by the Additional Chief Secretary, the order mandates that, superseding all previous practices, every school in the state must now sing Vande Mataram before regular classes begin. Implementation of this order is effective immediately.
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Key Details and Memo Number
The order, numbered 607 – SED (Admn.)/2026, was issued following approval from the competent authority. While primarily targeting schools under the School Education Department, the directive also recommends adopting this practice in educational institutions overseen by other departments.
Copies of this order have already been sent to all District Magistrates (DMs), District Inspectors (DIs) of schools, and presidents of the primary education councils. Additionally, the Madrasah Education Department and the Tribal Welfare Department have been requested to implement this same protocol in their respective institutions.
Impact on Students and Teachers
Starting this Monday, the daily routine in schools across the state will see minor adjustments. Alongside the national anthem, singing Vande Mataram is now a mandatory part of the morning assembly. District Inspectors have been tasked with keeping a close watch to ensure full compliance.
Administrative Preparations
The order from Bikash Bhavan has been forwarded to the WBBSE, WBCHSE, and WBBPE. Headmasters and headmistresses are now responsible for ensuring the song is performed during the assembly in accordance with these new guidelines.
Significance of the Directive
While many schools were already following this practice voluntarily, it has now been made officially mandatory. This will bring a uniform prayer protocol to all districts in the state. Once the directive reaches the schools, teachers and staff are expected to strictly adhere to it. This move by the School Education Department is being viewed as a significant new chapter in the state’s education system.
