The National Flag of India, known as the Tiranga, stands as a symbol of the nation’s unity and pride. Its design features three horizontal stripes in saffron, white, and green, with the Ashoka Chakra at the center. The flag’s dimensions are precisely defined to maintain uniformity and respect across various sizes and uses. This article details the size and proportions of the Indian flag, highlighting its significance and guidelines.
Design and Symbolism of Indian National Flag
The Indian National flag consists of three horizontal stripes of equal width. The top stripe is saffron, the middle stripe is white and the bottom one is green. A navy blue Ashok Chakra with 24 spokes is located at the center of the white stripe. Each of these elements holds significant symbolism:
- Saffron (Top Stripe): This color signifies courage, sacrifice, and selflessness. It reflects the spirit of the people of India, who have always been ready to make sacrifices for the nation’s welfare.
- White (Middle Strip): White represents truth, purity, and peace. It also signifies the inclusion of all religions and communities, highlighting India’s diverse and harmonious culture.
- Green (Bottom Stripe): The green stripe symbolizes fertility, growth, and auspiciousness. It reflects India’s agricultural heritage and its commitment to sustainable development.
- Ashoka Chakra: It embodies righteousness, progress and the perpetuity of life. The Chakra also underscores India’s efforts towards self-realization and self-discovery.
National Flag of India: Size and Dimensions
The Flag Code of India outlines the specifications for the size and dimensions of the National Flag to ensure uniformity and respect for the flag’s dignity.
The flag’s proportions are as follows:
- Width to Length Ratio: The width of the flag is two-thirds of its length. The ratio of the width to the length of the flag is 2:3.
- Size options: The Flag Code of India has specified various sizes for the national flag, based on their use and displays.
S. No. Size of National Flag (in mm) Size of Ashoka Chakra in mm 1. 6300 x 4200 1295 2. 3600 x 2400 740 3. 2700 x 1800 555 4. 1800 x 1200 370 5. 1350 x 900 280 6. 900 x 600 185 7. 450 x 300 90 8. 225 x 150 40 9. 150 x 100 25
- Diameter of Ashoka Chakra: The diameter of the Ashoka Chakra is determined based on the white stripe’s width. It should be three-fourths of the white stripe’s width. The Ashoka Chakra is centered on the white stripe, equidistant from the top and bottom edges.
Respectful usage of the National Flag
The Indian National Flag holds immense significance and must be treated with the utmost respect and dignity. Some of the guidelines for its appropriate usage are:
- The flag should never touch the ground.
- It should not be used for commercial purposes.
- When displayed, it should be flown in a proper manner.
- It should never be dipped into any person or thing.
- The flag should always be hoisted with saffron at the top and green at the bottom.
- The flag should not be used as a drapery, costume, or uniform.
- Damaged or soiled flags should be privately destroyed in a dignified manner.