What Are the 17 National Symbols of India and Their Importance?
The National Symbols of India are powerful representations of the country’s unity, rich heritage, and cultural pride. Each symbol, from the tiger to the lotus, tells a story about India’s identity and values. Understanding these national icons gives students and readers a deeper appreciation for what makes India unique on the world stage.
List of National Symbols of India with Names and Significance
| National Symbol | Name | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| National Flag | Tiranga | Symbolizes unity, diversity, and the spirit of freedom; designed by Pingali Venkayya. |
| National Emblem | State Emblem of India (Lion Capital of Ashoka) | Reflects India’s heritage; the motto “Satyameva Jayate” means “Truth Alone Triumphs.” |
| National Anthem | Jana Gana Mana | Composed by Rabindranath Tagore, it promotes unity in diversity. |
| National Song | Vande Mataram | Penned by Bankim Chandra Chatterjee, celebrates the land and freedom. |
| National Animal | Royal Bengal Tiger | Symbolizes strength, power, and India’s commitment to wildlife conservation. |
| National Bird | Indian Peacock | Represents grace, beauty, and vibrancy of Indian culture. |
| National Flower | Lotus | Represents purity and spiritual enlightenment. |
| National Fruit | Mango | Known as the ‘King of Fruits’, represents prosperity and abundance. |
| National Tree | Indian Banyan | Symbolizes immortality and resilience in Indian mythology. |
| National Aquatic Animal | Ganges River Dolphin | Highlights the need to conserve aquatic life in Indian rivers. |
| National River | Ganga | Considered sacred and life-giving in Indian tradition. |
| National Heritage Animal | Indian Elephant | Symbolizes wisdom, strength, and is revered in Indian culture. |
| National Currency Symbol | ₹ (Indian Rupee) | Emphasizes India’s economic identity; designed by Udaya Kumar Dharmalingam. |
| National Calendar | Saka Calendar | Officially used across government documents, marking India’s chronology. |
| National Pledge | National Pledge of India | Inspires patriotism and respect for the nation among students. |
| National Vegetable | Pumpkin | Represents sustenance and is widely used in Indian cuisine. |
| National Reptile | King Cobra | Shows India’s diverse and unique wildlife heritage. |
These 17 national symbols form the core of India’s identity and are recognized by students and citizens alike. They inspire pride and a sense of belonging, serving as constant reminders of India’s history and achievements.
Understanding the National Symbols of India
National Symbols of India serve as a unified set of emblems that represent the nation’s values, culture, natural diversity, and history. Each one is carefully chosen to symbolize important facets of Indian society, from the spiritual purity signified by the lotus, to the strength and courage embodied by the tiger. By learning about these symbols, kids, students, and adults alike gain a sense of connection to India’s legacy.
The list includes iconic representations from nature, literature, and art, each with a unique story.
National symbols are used in official events, documents, and are taught in schools to build a strong national identity.
Many of these symbols, like the National Emblem and National Anthem, have deep historical roots and feature in India’s freedom struggle.
For a deeper dive into similar topics, you can explore the national bird of China, or learn more about national parks in India.
Significance of National Symbols of India
Every national symbol holds a special meaning for Indians. The symbols unite people across languages, states, and customs, cultivating a sense of pride and patriotism. Whether you are looking at the National Flower (Lotus) that stands for purity, or listening to the National Anthem that celebrates unity in diversity, these symbols are present in everyday life.
They appear on currency, official seals, and in classrooms all over India.
Knowing the National Symbols of India with names helps young learners grasp the country’s diversity and the values it upholds.
Many government initiatives use these symbols to foster unity, identity, and environmental awareness—such as promoting river and wildlife conservation.
Teachers often use the National Symbols of India Chart to help kids remember important facts in schools.
To learn about similar state-level emblems, check State Animals and Birds of India.
Fun Facts and Learning Tips for Kids
If you are searching for National symbols of India for kids or want a quick reference, here are some simple and fun facts: The peacock became the national bird in 1963, while the Ganga was declared the national river in 2008. The National Symbols of India drawing and stickers are often used in classrooms to make learning more interactive.
Try drawing the National Flag with its three colors and Ashoka Chakra.
Read stories about the Banyan Tree in Indian mythology for a cultural understanding.
Sing or listen to the National Anthem and National Song to feel their significance.
Create your own National Symbols of India chart or explore available resources to reinforce learning.
To discover symbols from other countries, check National Emblem of Different Countries.
How National Symbols Inspire Unity and Patriotism
The National Symbols of India, seen at public functions, on currency, or in schools, foster unity and inspire pride amongst citizens. Their stories reflect common values of courage, purity, wisdom, and happiness, helping Indians celebrate what unites them. Vedantu supports students in learning these core facts through engaging lessons and activities.
The National Pledge is recited daily by millions of students.
The Indian Rupee symbol mark connects local markets to global commerce.
Festivals, patriotic events, and environmental campaigns often highlight these symbols to encourage national participation.
For more about Indian pride, look up National Sports Awards Winners and their achievements.
Interesting Activities: National Symbols of India Chart and Drawings
Many students create their own National Symbols of India chart or try making drawings to remember each symbol and its significance. Schools organize competitions or exhibitions featuring National Symbols of India with pictures, making it easier for children to identify and recall these icons. You can even find Vedantu resources tailored for hands-on learning and explanation in multiple languages, including Hindi, Tamil, and Kannada.
Page Summary
India’s 17 national symbols reflect the nation’s unity, cultural richness, and timeless traditions. From the majestic Royal Bengal Tiger to the sacred Ganga, each symbolizes pride and identity. Learning about the National Symbols of India deepens our respect for the country’s heritage and values, making it a key part of general knowledge for all students.
FAQs on Complete List of National Symbols of India
1. What are the 17 national symbols of India?
India officially recognizes 17 national symbols, each signifying a unique aspect of the nation's heritage, culture, and identity. These include:
- National Flag – Tiranga (Tricolour)
- National Emblem – Lion Capital of Ashoka
- National Anthem – Jana Gana Mana
- National Song – Vande Mataram
- National Animal – Bengal Tiger
- National Bird – Indian Peacock
- National Flower – Lotus
- National Fruit – Mango
- National Tree – Banyan
- National River – Ganga
- National Aquatic Animal – Ganges River Dolphin
- National Reptile – King Cobra
- National Heritage Animal – Indian Elephant
- National Calendar – Saka Calendar
- National Currency – Indian Rupee (₹)
- National Microorganism – Lactobacillus delbrueckii
- National Sport – Hockey (popularly recognized)
2. What is the difference between the National Emblem and the National Symbol of India?
The National Emblem of India specifically refers to the official symbol adopted from the Lion Capital of Ashoka, representing authority and authenticity of the Government of India. In contrast, national symbols is a broad term for various icons and objects (like the flag, animal, bird) that embody the nation’s values, culture, and identity.
- National Emblem: Used on official documents, currency, and government seals.
- National Symbols: Encompasses all recognized elements that represent India internationally and domestically.
3. Why are national symbols important for India?
National symbols play a vital role in defining India’s national identity and fostering unity among citizens. Their significance includes:
- Representing the cultural heritage, values, and traditions of India
- Promoting patriotism and national pride in students and citizens
- Serving as official insignia in international and governmental affairs
- Highlighting conservation efforts (e.g., tiger, river dolphin)
4. Which is the national animal of India and why was it chosen?
The Bengal Tiger is the national animal of India, symbolizing strength, power, and grace. It was chosen in 1973 to highlight India's rich wildlife and conserve this species, reflecting the country’s commitment to biodiversity and environmental protection.
5. Who decides the national symbols of India?
National symbols of India are designated by the Government of India, often through ministries such as the Ministry of Culture and by official notifications or government resolutions. Recommendations may also come from cultural or scientific bodies. The process sometimes involves historical or ecological considerations and aims at representing India’s rich diversity.
6. What is the national aquatic animal of India and its importance?
The national aquatic animal of India is the Ganges River Dolphin (Platanista gangetica). It was chosen to bring attention to water conservation, the significance of the Ganga river system, and the urgent need to protect endangered freshwater species. This symbol is important for highlighting India’s commitment to ecological balance and sustainable development.
7. Is hockey the official national sport of India?
Hockey is popularly considered the national sport of India, known for India's historic Olympic success. However, it has not been officially notified as the national sport by the Government of India, but it is commonly referenced in textbooks and exams as such.
8. What is the significance of the Indian national flag (Tiranga)?
The Indian national flag, known as Tiranga or Tricolour, was adopted in 1947 and symbolizes unity, sovereignty, and cultural diversity. Its saffron represents courage, white stands for peace and truth, green symbolizes faith and prosperity, and the Ashoka Chakra reflects the eternal wheel of law. The Tiranga unites all Indians under a common identity.
9. What do national symbols represent in Indian culture?
National symbols represent India’s collective identity, reflecting the country’s traditions, beliefs, aspirations, and unity-in-diversity. They carry values such as respect for nature (tiger, banyan, river dolphin), cultural pride (anthem, peacock, mango), and the celebration of Indian civilisation in global forums.
10. Can the list of national symbols in India change in the future?
The list of national symbols in India can evolve as the government sometimes introduces new symbols (like microorganism, river dolphin) based on ecological, cultural, or scientific relevance. Any change is officially notified and updated in public records, ensuring the list stays relevant to contemporary Indian society and values.
11. What is the national bird of India and why was it selected?
The national bird of India is the Indian Peacock. Adopted in 1963, the peacock is a symbol of grace, beauty, and Indian tradition. Its unique plumage and presence in Indian mythology and culture make it an ideal representative of India's rich natural heritage.
12. List the national emblem, animal, and flower of India.
The national emblem, animal, and flower of India are:
- Emblem: Lion Capital of Ashoka (adopted 1950)
- Animal: Bengal Tiger (adopted 1973)
- Flower: Lotus (adopted 1950)
