The Flag Code of India

Size & Shape of the National Flag

The National Flag should be rectangular in shape with a length to width ratio of 3:2.

There are various standard sizes of the national flag, prescribed by the Flag Code and citizens must choose an appropriate size for display.

450X300 mm size is to be used for aircrafts on VVIP flights, 225X150 mm size for motor-cars and 150X100 mm size for table flags.

Rules governing Display of National Flag by Citizens and, Private and Educational Organizations
There is no restriction on the display of National Flag by members of the general public, private organizations, educational institutions, etc., provided they follow all the prescribed rules. The following important things have to be kept in mind:

The flag should not be used for commercial purposes
The flag should not be dipped to salute any person
The flag should not be used as a portion of costume or uniform. It should not be embroidered or printed on cushions, handkerchiefs, napkins or any dress material
No lettering of any kind should be put on the flag
The flag should not be used as a receptacle for receiving, delivering, holding or carrying anything
The flag should not be intentionally displayed with ‘saffron’ down
The flag should not be used to cover a speaker’s desk and it should not be draped over a speaker’s platform
A damaged or dishevelled flag should not be used
The flag should only be displayed from sun-rise to sun-set

Insult to the National Flag will attract a prison term of 3 years
As per Section 2 of ‘The Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971’– Whoever, in any public place or in any other place within public view, burns, mutilates, defaces, defiles, disfigures, destroys, tramples upon or otherwise shows disrespect to or brings into contempt (whether by words, either spoken or written, or by acts) the Indian National Flag or any part of it, shall be punished with imprisonment for a term which may extend to three years or with fine, or with both. more