Chennai: The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has directed all its affiliated schools across the country to organise special programmes centred on the patriotic song 'Vande Mataram' till November next year to promote national unity and patriotism among students.

In an official circular, CBSE Director (Administration) Pragya Singh said the initiative is aimed at commemorating the 150th year of the composition of 'Vande Mataram' and strengthening students' emotional connect with the nation. The programmes are to be held during morning assemblies until November 7 next year, the circular said.

Teachers have been instructed to explain the background of the song, its composer and its meaning to students. Schools have also been asked to organise a range of co-curricular activities such as question-and-answer sessions, quizzes, poster-making, painting and other art competitions focusing on national unity.

In addition, speeches, essay-writing contests and presentations on the freedom struggle