what are the 17 national symbols of india
What are the 17 national symbols of India?
Answer:
India, a country with rich cultural heritage, has several national symbols that represent its identity and values. Here are the 17 national symbols of India:
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National Flag: The national flag of India is a horizontal tricolor of deep saffron (Kesari) at the top, white in the middle, and dark green at the bottom in equal proportion. In the center of the white band is a navy blue wheel with 24 spokes, known as the Ashoka Chakra.
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National Emblem: The national emblem of India is an adaptation of the Lion Capital of Ashoka at Sarnath, which features four Asiatic lions standing back to back. Below it is a horse and a bull, separated by a wheel (Ashoka Chakra). The inscription “Satyameva Jayate” (Truth Alone Triumphs) is written in Devanagari script.
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National Anthem: “Jana Gana Mana” is the national anthem of India. It was composed by Rabindranath Tagore.
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National Song: “Vande Mataram” is the national song of India, written by Bankim Chandra Chatterjee.
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National Currency: The Indian Rupee (₹) is the national currency of India.
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National Calendar: The Saka calendar is officially recognized alongside the Gregorian calendar.
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National Animal: The Bengal Tiger (Panthera tigris tigris) is the national animal of India.
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National Bird: The Indian Peacock (Pavo cristatus) is the national bird of India.
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National Flower: The Lotus (Nelumbo nucifera) is the national flower of India.
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National Fruit: The Mango (Mangifera indica) is the national fruit of India.
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National Tree: The Banyan tree (Ficus benghalensis) is the national tree of India.
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National Aquatic Animal: The Ganges River Dolphin (Platanista gangetica) is the national aquatic animal of India.
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National River: The Ganga (Ganges) River is the national river of India.
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National Reptile: The King Cobra (Ophiophagus hannah) is the national reptile of India.
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National Heritage Animal: The Indian Elephant (Elephas maximus indicus) is recognized as the national heritage animal of India.
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National Game: Field Hockey is considered the national game of India, although it has not been officially declared as such by the Indian government.
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National Wear: The Sari for women and the Dhoti for men are recognized as national attire in traditional and cultural contexts.
Each of these symbols has a unique significance and collectively they encapsulate the essence of India’s national pride and cultural diversity.