Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay is expected to move a resolution in the Assembly on Monday (August 10, 2026), emphasising the State Song, ‘Tamil Thai Vazhthu’ (invocation to mother Tamil), be mandatorily sung before the commencement of programmes held by all educational institutions, universities, government offices, public sector undertakings and other public institutions in the State.

The move comes against the backdrop of a letter from the Union Ministry of Home Affairs on July 9, asking the States and Union Ministries to “strictly comply” with its January 28 directive that the National Song, ‘Vande Mataram’, be played before the National Anthem at official events.

In Tamil Nadu, a Government Order was issued on November 23, 1970, stipulating that ‘Tamil Thai Vazhthu’ be sung at the commencement of official events. On December 12, 2021, the State government officially recognised ‘Tamil Thaai Vazhthu’ as the State Song and ordered that it be rendered first at all official events.

Against this backdrop, the State government is learnt to be bringing the resolution in the Assembly.

Published - August 09, 2026 10:11 pm IST