CBSE has shared a circular announcing a year-long programme to mark 150 years of “Vande Mataram”. As per the recent circular, the activities will run from 7 November 2025 to 7 November 2026 and are meant for all CBSE-affiliated schools.
This is not planned as a one-day celebration or a symbolic gesture. CBSE has clearly asked schools to take it up over the year, giving students time to slowly understand the meaning and importance of Vande Mataram. The focus is on steady engagement rather than a single event that gets forgotten soon after.
What is the objective of the CBSE Vande Mataram initiative?
At its core, the initiative is about helping students relate to national values in a more real way. Vande Mataram is often heard during assemblies, but many students do not fully know where it comes from or why it holds such importance.
Through activities spread across the year, schools can help students explore their connection with India’s freedom movement, culture, and sense of unity. Instead of memorising facts, students get a chance to think, ask questions, and express their understanding through art, writing, music, and discussion.
Who should follow these guidelines?
The circular applies to all CBSE-affiliated schools, including Kendriya Vidyalayas, Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalayas, and other central schools. Heads of schools are expected to ensure that activities are conducted and that updates are shared as required. CBSE has not asked for elaborate events. What matters more is regular participation and honest effort across the year.
Month-wise action plan shared by CBSE
To help schools plan without confusion, CBSE has suggested a month-wise set of activities. These are not strict instructions. Schools can adjust them based on their academic schedule, student age groups, and available time. Below is an overview of the suggested plan.
| Month | Suggested Activity |
| January 2026 | Essay writing or short reflections on why Vande Mataram still matters |
| February 2026 | Group singing or recitation during school assemblies |
| March 2026 | Photo displays or visual exhibitions linked to India’s heritage |
| April 2026 | Cultural programmes such as music, dance, or storytelling |
| May 2026 | Art and craft activities with patriotic themes |
| June 2026 | Drama, skits, or simple role-play sessions |
| July 2026 | Peace and harmony walks or awareness activities |
| August 2026 | Inter-school interactions, webinars, or joint programmes |
| September–October 2026 | Ongoing creative or reflective activities |
| November 2026 | A closing event showcasing student work from the year |
Reporting requirements for schools
Schools are expected to share monthly updates of the activities conducted. This usually includes short descriptions, a few photographs, and basic participation details. CBSE has provided an online form to make this process easier.
It would help schools to keep simple records month by month so that reporting does not feel rushed or last-minute.
How schools can implement this smoothly
This programme does not require extra periods or major changes to the timetable. Many of the activities can be included during morning assemblies, art classes, language periods, or club time.
Younger students may enjoy drawing, singing, or short performances. Furthermore, older students can be encouraged to write, discuss, or reflect on what Vande Mataram means in today’s context. With small adjustments, schools can fit these activities into their routine without adding pressure.
More than a celebration, a learning journey
The year-long Vande Mataram initiative is meant to go beyond celebration. It gives schools a chance to help students understand the ideas behind national symbols and why they still matter. When carried out steadily through the year, the programme can turn into a meaningful learning experience, one that students are likely to remember even after the celebrations come to an end.