Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath announced on November 10, 2025, that singing the national song "Vande Mataram" will be compulsory in all schools and educational institutions across the state. This declaration was made during an 'Ekta Yatra' event in Gorakhpur, where the Chief Minister emphasized the importance of instilling a sense of reverence and pride towards the nation among citizens.

Adityanath stated, "There should be a sense of respect for the national song Vande Mataram. We will make its singing compulsory in every school and educational institution of Uttar Pradesh." This initiative follows a recent political discussion sparked by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who highlighted that important stanzas of "Vande Mataram" were omitted in 1937, which he claimed contributed to the partition of India.

The announcement comes in the context of a year-long celebration marking the 150th anniversary of "Vande Mataram," which began on November 7, 2024. The song, composed by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay, first appeared in the literary journal "Bangadarshan" in 1875 and has been a significant symbol of India's freedom struggle.

During the celebration, PM Modi remarked that "Vande Mataram" is a true symbol of India's unity and has inspired generations. He expressed hope that the commemoration would energize citizens and reinforce national pride. The initiative to make the song mandatory in educational institutions aligns with these sentiments, aiming to foster a deeper connection to the nation among students.