SSC CGL - Detailed Guide 2025
Self-Paced Course
Important National Symbols of India
Official symbols representing India's identity and heritage
1. National Identity Symbols
| Symbol Type | Name/Description | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| National Flag | Tiranga (Tricolor) | Saffron, White, Green with Ashoka Chakra (24 spokes) |
| National Emblem | Lion Capital of Ashoka | Adopted from Sarnath pillar, "Satyameva Jayate" below |
| National Anthem | Jana Gana Mana | Written by Rabindranath Tagore |
| National Song | Vande Mataram | Composed by Bankim Chandra Chatterjee |
| National Calendar | Saka Calendar | Adopted in 1957, used alongside Gregorian calendar |
| National Currency | Indian Rupee (₹) | Symbol adopted in 2010, designed by Udaya Kumar |
SSC Tip:
- National Anthem duration: 52 seconds (full version)
- Flag ratio: 2:3 (width:length)
- Emblem features four Asiatic lions (only three visible)
2. National Flora and Fauna
| Category | Symbol | Description |
|---|---|---|
| National Animal | Royal Bengal Tiger | Symbol of strength, power, and grace |
| National Bird | Indian Peacock | Symbol of beauty and elegance |
| National Flower | Lotus | Symbol of purity and cultural heritage |
| National Tree | Indian Banyan Tree | Symbol of immortality and longevity |
| National Fruit | Mango | Known as "King of Fruits" |
| National Aquatic Animal | Ganges River Dolphin | Indicator of river ecosystem health |
| National Reptile | King Cobra | Longest venomous snake, protected species |
SSC Tip:
- Tiger adopted as national animal in 1973 (Project Tiger launched same year)
- Peacock protected under Wildlife Protection Act 1972
- Lotus is sacred in Hinduism and Buddhism
3. National Physical Features
| Feature Type | Name | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| National River | Ganga | Considered sacred and lifeline of India |
| Highest Peak | Kangchenjunga (8,586 m) | Third highest peak in the world |
| Longest River (Indian origin) | Ganga | Originates from Gangotri glacier |
| Largest Lake | Vembanad Lake (Kerala) | Also a Ramsar Wetland |
| Longest Dam | Hirakud Dam (Odisha) | On river Mahanadi |
SSC Tip: Ganga declared national river in 2008; Kangchenjunga located on India-Nepal border
4. National Sports and Culture
| Category | Symbol/Name | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| National Game | Hockey (not officially declared) | India's golden period in Olympics |
| National Day | 26 January (Republic Day) | Adoption of Constitution in 1950 |
| Independence Day | 15 August | Freedom from British rule in 1947 |
| Gandhi Jayanti | 2 October | Celebrated as International Day of Non-Violence |
| National Youth Day | 12 January | Birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda |
SSC Tip: India won 8 Olympic gold medals in hockey (1928-1980); No official national game declared
5. Other National Symbols & Recognitions
| Symbol/Concept | Name/Description | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| National Heritage Animal | Indian Elephant | Cultural and ecological importance |
| National Motto | Satyameva Jayate | Truth alone triumphs — from Mundaka Upanishad |
| National Pledge | Indian National Pledge | Recited in schools |
| National Drink | Tea (informally) | India is one of the largest producers |
| National Language | No national language officially | Hindi & English — official languages |
SSC Tip: "Satyameva Jayate" appears below national emblem; India has 22 scheduled languages
Quick Summary Table
| Category | Symbol | Key Fact |
|---|---|---|
| Flag | Tiranga | Adopted on 22 July 1947 |
| Animal | Royal Bengal Tiger | Adopted in 1973 |
| Bird | Indian Peacock | Declared in 1963 |
| Anthem | Jana Gana Mana | Adopted in 1950 |
| River | Ganga | Declared in 2008 |
Developed By Satyam Kumar
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