National symbols stand for the identity, history and values of India. They are fixed by the government and are common in static GK. Each symbol has a special meaning and adoption date worth remembering.
National Flag and Emblem
- National Flag – the Tricolour, adopted on 22 July 1947. It has saffron, white and green bands with a navy blue Ashoka Chakra of 24 spokes.
- National Emblem – adapted from the Lion Capital of Sarnath, adopted on 26 January 1950. It carries the motto Satyameva Jayate.
National Anthem and Song
- National Anthem – Jana Gana Mana, written by Rabindranath Tagore. Adopted on 24 January 1950. Playing time is about 52 seconds.
- National Song – Vande Mataram, written by Bankim Chandra Chatterjee.
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Natural Symbols
- National Animal – Royal Bengal Tiger.
- National Bird – Indian Peacock.
- National Flower – Lotus.
- National Tree – Banyan.
- National Fruit – Mango.
- National Aquatic Animal – Ganges River Dolphin.
- National River – Ganga.
Other Symbols
- National Calendar – Saka Calendar, adopted in 1957.
- National Currency Symbol – the Rupee sign, adopted in 2010.
- National Reptile – King Cobra.
- National Heritage Animal – Indian Elephant.
Quick Revision Points
- National Flag adopted on 22 July 1947.
- Ashoka Chakra has 24 spokes.
- National Anthem written by Rabindranath Tagore.
- National Song is Vande Mataram.
- National Animal is the Royal Bengal Tiger.
- National Bird is the Peacock; flower is the Lotus.
- National Aquatic Animal is the Ganges River Dolphin.
- Emblem motto is Satyameva Jayate.