Dhaka, Feb. 11 -- India has introduced a new rule requiring the national song "Vande Mataram" to be played before the national anthem "Jana Gana Mana" at all government programmes and in schools, NDTV reports.

In a directive issued on Wednesday morning, the Indian home ministry said everyone present must stand when the national song is played.

The song will now be compulsory at civilian award ceremonies such as the Padma awards, as well as at events attended by the president of India.

According to Indian media reports, it will also be played in public spaces such as cinema halls.

Unlike the national anthem, standing in such venues, however, will not be mandatory.

The ministry has directed that all six stanzas of "Vande Mataram" be pe...