NewsIMTSDarjeeling schools have been exempted from singing the Bengali state anthem 'Banglar Mati, Banglar Jol' during morning assemblies. The Gorkhaland Territorial Administration (GTA) notified on 8 November 2025 that the West Bengal government's mandate will not apply to institutions in the region. GTA Secretary informed schools that they can continue following their traditional anthems and prayers in Nepali language, respecting the diverse culture and traditions of students in the area. The Mamata Banerjee government had recently ordered all state-run and state-aided schools to sing Rabindranath Tagore's song alongside the national anthem during assemblies. Previously, West Bengal schools had no specific rule for following any particular prayer or state anthem. Students can learn more about this policy by visiting the education news section on the official GTA website. (Updated 8 Nov 2025, 11:15 IST; source: link)
Darjeeling Schools Get Special Status for Morning Assembly
The Gorkhaland Territorial Administration (GTA) has exempted schools in Darjeeling from singing the Bengali state anthem 'Banglar Mati, Banglar Jol' during morning assemblies. This decision was announced on November 8, 2025, through an official notification. The exemption allows Darjeeling schools to continue with their traditional practices, including prayers and songs in the Nepali language. This move respects the unique cultural identity of the region, which has a predominantly Nepali-speaking population with distinct traditions from the rest of West Bengal. This note explains what it means for students, when the process starts, how to check updates, and what to do next in simple steps.
Bengal Anthem Rule and Cultural Considerations
The West Bengal government had recently made it mandatory for all state-run and state-aided schools to sing Rabindranath Tagore's composition 'Banglar Mati, Banglar Jol' alongside the national anthem during morning assemblies. However, the GTA Secretary has informed educational institutions in the region that they can maintain their existing practices. This exemption acknowledges the cultural diversity within West Bengal and shows sensitivity toward the Gorkha community's traditions. Previously, schools in the state had no specific requirements regarding prayers or anthems, allowing institutions to follow practices aligned with their local cultural context.
Key Points
- The Gorkhaland Territorial Administration (GTA) notified on 8 November 2025 that the West Bengal government's mandate will not apply to institutions in the region.
- Darjeeling schools have been exempted from singing the Bengali state anthem 'Banglar Mati, Banglar Jol' during morning assemblies.
- The Mamata Banerjee government had recently ordered all state-run and state-aided schools to sing Rabindranath Tagore's song alongside the national anthem during assemblies.
