Overview
On 21 May 2026, the West Bengal government made the singing of Vande Mataram compulsory in all recognised madrasas across the state. The song must be sung during morning assemblies before classes begin. The order applies to government model madrasas, government-aided madrasas, and unaided madrasas under the Directorate of Madrasa. This is a significant step linking patriotic expression with religious educational institutions.
Latest News: New Order for Madrasas
On 21 May 2026, the West Bengal government issued a directive. All recognised madrasas in the state must now sing Vande Mataram during morning assemblies. The singing must happen before classes start. This rule applies to three types of madrasas:
-
Government model madrasas
-
Government-aided madrasas
-
Unaided madrasas under the Directorate of Madrasa
The order brings madrasas on par with regular schools. Earlier, a similar directive was issued for schools under the Department of School Education.
What Is Vande Mataram?
Vande Mataram is a Sanskrit patriotic song. It was written by Bankim Chandra Chatterjee. He wrote it in his novel Anandamath, which was published in 1882. The song became very popular during India’s freedom movement. People sang it to show love for their country. In 1950, India adopted Vande Mataram as the National Song of India. It holds a special place in Indian public life.
What Is the National Anthem?
Many people confuse Vande Mataram with the National Anthem. They are different. The National Anthem of India is Jana Gana Mana. It was also adopted in 1950. Schools and madrasas across India usually sing the National Anthem during morning assemblies. The new order does not replace the National Anthem. It adds Vande Mataram as a compulsory song.
Madrasas in West Bengal: A Quick Look
West Bengal has a well-known madrasa education system. Madrasas here are of three kinds:
-
Government model madrasas – Fully run by the state government.
-
Government-aided madrasas – Private madrasas that receive government funds.
-
Unaided madrasas – Private madrasas that do not take government money.
All these madrasas fall under the Directorate of Madrasa. The new order applies to all three types. This means every recognised madrasa in the state must follow the rule.
Other Assembly Songs in West Bengal Schools
West Bengal has a history of using special songs in schools. Before the latest order, Banglar Mati Banglar Jal was made compulsory in state schools. This is a Bengali song linked to West Bengal’s state identity. The government has now extended a similar patriotic requirement to madrasas. Vande Mataram is the chosen song for them.
Why Is This Order Important?
This order is important for several reasons:
Month: Current Affairs - May 21, 2026
Category: West Bengal