Official design
The Flag Code of India describes three equal horizontal panels: India saffron, white and India green. The navy-blue Ashoka Chakra appears in the centre of the white panel and must be visible on both sides.
- The Chakra contains 24 equally spaced spokes.
- The flag has a length-to-height ratio of 3:2.
- The Chakra is centred in the white panel.
What does the wheel represent?
The design is associated with the Dharmachakra, a wheel used in Indian philosophical and Buddhist traditions to represent dharma, moral order and the continuing movement of righteous conduct.
The wheel is frequently interpreted through ideas such as justice, responsibility, continuous movement, ethical governance and the rule of law. These are philosophical interpretations rather than a legally defined meaning for every spoke.
Ashoka Chakra and modern India
In modern India, the Chakra connects the republic with a much older civilisational tradition. It is both a historical symbol and a living civic reminder that progress is meaningful when supported by justice, dignity and responsibility.