flag off

[Mmustafa]

Hello,

What does the expression "flag off" mean here?

A high-level 15 member delegation of business leaders and government officials from the State of Gujarat will flag off its UAE tour in Dubai starting 25th September 2010. The 5 day tour comprises meetings with companies, organisations and institutions in Dubai, Sharjah and Abu Dhabi.


Thanks

 

[Tazzler]

It seems to mean "initiate" here.

 

[Loob]

This use of "flag off" appears to be common in Indian (and Nigerian?) English, judging by google hits. It clearly derives from the use of a flag to start a race.