National Symbols of India are an important part of any nation’s identity. It reflects the country’s cultural values and historical importance. There are 17 national symbols of India. For Indians, these 17 national symbols of India are a source of pride. Moreover, they also represent India’s diverse heritage. These symbols are integral to the country’s identity. They hold significant meaning in the context of national importance.
In competitive exams such as UPSC, SSC, railways and banking, questions related to the 17 National Symbols of India are frequently asked. In this article, we will look into the national symbols of India. We will also discuss their importance.
National Symbols of India
National Symbols of India represent the country’s values and history. Moreover, they are also an important representation of our country’s identity. India has a rich cultural heritage and diverse traditions. India’s national symbols evoke a sense of pride and patriotism. Furthermore, the 17 national symbols of India create a deep understanding of unity among its citizens. India’s national symbols embody the collective spirit and heritage of the nation.
List of National Symbols of India
Below is the list of the national symbols of India with name. The 17 national symbols of India embody India’s cultural heritage. Moreover, they evoke feelings of patriotism, pride, and unity. At the same time, they reflect the country’s rich diversity and identity.
| National Symbols of India | ||
| S. No. | Title | National Symbols |
| 1. | National Flag | Tiranga |
| 2. | National Anthem | Jana Gana Mana |
| 3. | National Calendar | Saka calendar |
| 4. | National Song | Vande Mataram |
| 5. | National Emblem | National Emblem of India |
| 6. | National Fruit | Mango |
| 7. | National River | Ganga |
| 8. | National Animal | Royal Bengal Tiger |
| 9. | National Tree | Indian Banyan |
| 10. | National Aquatic Animal | Ganges River Dolphin |
| 11. | National Bird | Indian Peacock |
| 12. | National Currency | Indian Rupee |
| 13. | National Reptile | King Cobra |
| 14. | National Heritage Animal | Indian Elephant |
| 15. | National Flower | Lotus |
| 16. | National Vegetable | Pumpkin |
| 17. | Oath of Allegiance | National Pledge |
National Symbols of India: Chart
National Symbols of India with Names
Below is the list of India’s national symbols along with a brief description. The images of the National Symbols of India are also given.
1. National Flag of India: Tiranga
The National Flag of India is known as the Tiranga. Pingali Venkayya designed the Tiranga. It was officially adopted on 22nd July 1947. The flag has three colors:
- Saffron
- White
- Green
Saffron symbolizes the sacrifice of freedom fighters. White represents peace. Green stands for prosperity. Hence, the flag is a symbol of India’s unity, diversity, and pride.
2. National Anthem: Jana Gana Mana
India’s National Anthem is “Jana Gana Mana”. It was composed by Rabindranath Tagore in Bengali. However, later, it was translated into Hindi. It was officially adopted as the anthem in 1950. Its stirring lyrics reflect India’s diversity and unity.
3. National Calendar: Saka Calendar
The Saka Calendar is India’s national calendar. It has deep historical roots and represents the golden period of Indian civilization. This calendar has been in use for official purposes since 1957.
| National Calendar (Saka Calendar) | |
| Months | Dates |
| Chaitra | 21st March – 20th April |
| Vaishakha | 21st April – 21st May |
| Jyeshtha | 22nd May – 21st June |
| Ashadha | 22nd June – 22nd July |
| Shravana | 23rd July – 22nd August |
| Bhadra | 22nd August – 22nd September |
| Became | 23rd September – 22nd October |
| Kartika | 23rd October – 21st November |
| Agrahayana | 22nd November – 21st December |
| Pausha | 22nd December – 20th January |
| Magha | 21st January – 19th February |
| Phalguna | 20th February – 20th/21st March |
4. National Song of India: Vande Mataram
“Vande Mataram” is the National song of India. Bankim Chandra Chatterjee wrote it. The song was adopted in 1950 as the National song of India. “Vande Mataram” celebrates the country’s freedom struggle. Moreover, the song also pays homage to India as a motherland.
5. National Emblem: National Emblem of India
The National emblem of India is derived from the Ashoka Chakra at Sarnath. It is a symbol of the nation’s history and cultural importance. The motto of the emblem is “Satyameva Jayate”. The meaning behind this motto is “Truth Alone Triumphs”. Thus, the symbol symbolizes India’s commitment to justice and righteousness.
6. National Fruit of India: Mango
The National Fruit of India is the Mango. It is loved across the nation and is a symbol of summer and prosperity. Mango is famous for its sweetness, and hence, it is a cultural icon in India.
7. National River of India: Ganga
Ganga was announced as the National River of India in 2008. This decision highlights Ganga’s deep cultural and spiritual importance to India. The Ganga Action Plan was initiated to protect and preserve this sacred river.
8. National Animal: Royal Bengal Tiger
The Royal Bengal Tiger is India’s National Animal. It is recognized for its strength and grace. The tiger is also a symbol of the nation’s commitment to conservation. Unfortunately, it faces the threat of extinction.
9. National Tree of India: Indian Banyan
The banyan tree is India’s National Tree. The Indian Banyan is known for its vast canopy. Moreover, the banyan is a symbol of immortality and spiritual significance in Hinduism. Thus, the Indian Banyan represents resilience and longevity.
10. National Aquatic Animal of India: Ganges River Dolphin
India’s National Aquatic Animal is the Ganges River Dolphin. This species is found in the Ganges River. It is currently endangered. It is declared as one of the National symbols of India to raise awareness for its conservation.
11. National Bird of India: Indian Peacock
The National Bird of India is the peacock. It was chosen for its beauty and significance in Indian culture. The bird was adopted in 1963. The peacock represents India’s vibrancy, national pride, and cultural heritage.
12. National Currency: Indian Rupee
The currency of India is the Indian Rupee (INR). The Reserve Bank of India regulates it. Udayakumar Dharmalingam designed the rupee symbol. This symbol reflects India’s economic strength and heritage.
13. National Reptile of India: King Cobra
The King Cobra is the National Reptile of India. It is also known as the Snake Eater (Ophiophagus hannah). The King Cobra is found in the forests of India and Southeast Asia. This snake is the world’s longest venomous snake, capable of growing up to 19 feet. King Cobras may live up to 25 years. They can inject up to 6 ml of venom in a single bite. In terms of cultural significance, the King Cobra holds a special place in Hinduism. It is referred to as Nagas and is considered divine. Lord Shiva is often depicted with a cobra coiled around his neck.
14. National Heritage Animal: Indian Elephant
The National Heritage Animal of India is the Indian Elephant. It is revered in Indian culture. The elephant symbolizes strength and wisdom. However, its population is dwindling. Efforts are underway to protect this majestic animal.
15. National Flower: Lotus
The national flower of India is the Lotus (Nelumbo nucifera). The Lotus is an aquatic herb. In Sanskrit, it is often referred to as ‘Padma’. The Lotus enjoys a sacred status in Indian culture. It symbolizes spirituality, fruitfulness, wealth, knowledge, and illumination. It also represents purity of heart and mind.
16. National Vegetable: Pumpkin
Pumpkin is the National Vegetable of India. It was chosen for its widespread cultivation and the vital role it plays in Indian diets. This versatile vegetable is grown across the country. It requires minimal resources for cultivation.
17. Oath of Allegiance: National Pledge
The National Pledge of India is a declaration of allegiance to the nation. It emphasizes unity, peace, and national integrity. This pledge is recited across schools and institutions. It promotes patriotism and a sense of belonging.
Importance of National Symbols of India
There are 17 national symbols of India. The importance of the National Symbols of India is given below.
1. They exemplify the rich cultural fiber that resides at the core of the country. This richness is a fundamental part of its identity.
2. India’s national symbols infuse a deep sense of pride in the hearts of Indian citizens.
3. They represent a quality unique to India and its citizens.
4. The national symbols of India help to preserve the chosen national symbol for generations to come.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the national symbols of India represent its rich heritage and diversity. Moreover, India’s national symbols foster pride and unity among citizens. Furthermore, understanding these symbols helps preserve the essence of India’s legacy for future generations.
Frequently Asked Questions
The National Flag of India is called Tiranga. Pingali Venkayya designed it.
The National Song of India is called “Vande Mataram,” written by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay.
The National Anthem of India was sung for the 1st time on 27th December 1911 at the Calcutta Session.
Udaya Kumar Dharmalingam designed the Indian National Rupee.
There are 17 national symbols of India.
