The general guidelines for the use & display of flags are usually accepted globally amongst all nations. Much of the flag protocol is derived from common sense. That is, using it as a table cover or wrapping paper, displaying it upside down or the flag touching the ground are inappropriate uses. It should always be treated with respect. Many countries consider signing a flag disrespectful; Pinning or sewing items to a flag would also be ill advised. Below are general guidelines that you should adhere to for displaying the Indian national flag, depending on the desired application. Certain aspects & content of these guidelines maybe followed for the display of other national flags or custom logo flags.
The flag of honour, that is the nation's flag in most cases, is flown on the center mast if possible. It is also correct to fly the flag on its own right. (To an observer it would be on the far left). If more than three flags are used, the proper position is as far left from the point of view of an observer. It may also be correct to place it in the centre of a group flag arrangement. An additional flag may be placed on the right side, but is not necessary.
When two poles are crossed, the position of honour (the host country’s flag) is the flag that begins on the left side from the point of view of an observer (the pole will therefore end on the right). Further, the pole/staff of the flag of honour (or the host country) should be positioned ahead of the pole/staff of the flag on the opposite end.
In a semicircle, the position of honour is the center. If a full circle is used outside an entrance to an arena or stadium, the position of honour is directly opposite the entrance. If used to line the walls of the arena, the flag should be placed directly opposite the entrance.
When flown horizontally, as from a flag pole, the flag should be oriented so that the canton is closest to the top of the pole. If hung against a wall, the canton should be placed in the upper-left corner from the point of view of the observer. When hung vertically, flags should be rotated so the canton is again closest to the top of the pole. If the flag is displayed against a wall, the canton should again appear in the upper-left corner, which incidentally requires that the flag be both rotated and 'flipped' from its horizontal orientation.
When flags of many nations are flown, the flag of the hosting country maybe be placed on the left or centre, with the rest following in alphabetical order in the language of the host country.
The flag should be flown at half-mast as a sign of mourning only on instructions from the President or a governing authority, who will also give a date ending the mourning period. When the flag is to be flown at half mast, it must first be raised to the top of the mast and then slowly lowered to half mast. Before being lowered at sunset or at the appropriate time, the flag is first raised to the top of the pole and then lowered.
On a vehicle the flag should be affixed securely to the front right of the chassis or the fender. Car-window flags should be affixed securely to the window of a car. Flags placed inside the car should not touch the car’s interiors such as the dashboard etc. It is important to ensure that the flag does not obstruct the view of the driver. It is also advisable to keep the flag out of reach of children below 4 years of age.
When placed with a podium or at a place of worship the flag should hang directly behind or on a pole to the right of the speaker, from the point of view of the flag.
When carried in single file the flag of honour leads.
When no longer in a fit condition to be used, a flag should be disposed of in a dignified manner, preferably by burning or ground burial.
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