NewsIMTSUttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has made singing the national song 'Vande Mataram' mandatory in all government schools across the state on 20/5/2024. While addressing the Ekta Yatra in Gorakhpur, CM Yogi stated this move will inspire reverence for the motherland and strengthen patriotism among students. Former CM Akhilesh Yadav strongly opposed the decision, comparing it to forcing someone to eat something they don't want. He claimed the government is diverting attention from real issues like unemployment and inflation. The state government clarified that making 'Vande Mataram' mandatory is not about pressure but about promoting respect for the nation. Students can participate in the morning assembly singing by learning the lyrics and tune of the national song. (Updated 11 Nov 2025, 14:11 IST; source: link)
UP Makes Vande Mataram Mandatory in Schools
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has announced that singing the national song 'Vande Mataram' will now be mandatory in all government schools across the state. The order, issued on May 20, 2024, requires students to sing the national song during morning assemblies. While announcing this decision in Gorakhpur during an Ekta Yatra, CM Adityanath explained that the move aims to inspire reverence for the motherland and strengthen patriotic feelings among students. The state government has clarified that this requirement is meant to promote respect for the nation rather than apply pressure on students. Schools will help students learn both the lyrics and tune of the national song.
Opposition Criticizes the Mandatory Singing Decision
Former Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav has strongly opposed making 'Vande Mataram' compulsory in schools. He compared the mandate to forcing someone to eat something against their will, suggesting it restricts personal choice. Yadav claimed that the government is using this directive to divert public attention from more pressing issues facing the state, specifically mentioning unemployment and rising inflation. The criticism highlights the political divide over patriotic displays in educational institutions. Despite the opposition, the state government is proceeding with implementation, maintaining that the initiative is about fostering national pride rather than imposing beliefs on students.
Key Points
- Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has made singing the national song 'Vande Mataram' mandatory in all government schools across the state on 20/5/2024.
- Former CM Akhilesh Yadav strongly opposed the decision, comparing it to forcing someone to eat something they don't want.
- The state government clarified that making 'Vande Mataram' mandatory is not about pressure but about promoting respect for the nation.