Part of: Miscellaneous Indian Gk set 75

The Chakra in the national flag of India has

Category: Miscellaneous Indian Gk

Hint: Consider the historical and symbolic significance of the number of spokes.

Correct Answer: C) 24 spokes.

Exam Relevance: UPSC, SSC, Bank PO, Civil Services

Difficulty: Easy

Explanations:

The Ashoka Chakra, a 24-spoked wheel, is a significant element of the Indian national flag. The flag itself is a tricolor with three horizontal stripes of saffron, white, and green, and the Ashoka Chakra is located in the center of the white stripe. The saffron color represents courage and sacrifice, the white stripe symbolizes peace and truth, and the green stripe stands for faith and fertility. The Ashoka Chakra, also known as the Dharma Chakra, is derived from the Ashoka Pillar in Sarnath, which was erected by Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BCE.

The number 24 is significant in the context of the Ashoka Chakra. The 24 spokes represent the 24 hours in a day, symbolizing the eternal cycle of time and the continuous progress of the nation. Additionally, the number 24 is associated with the 24 principles of dharma, which are central to Indian philosophy and ethics. The dharma chakra, or the wheel of dharma, is a symbol of righteousness and the eternal law of the universe.

The design of the Indian national flag was finalized in 1947, shortly before India gained independence from British rule. The flag was officially adopted on July 22, 1947, and it has remained unchanged since then. The Ashoka Chakra is a key element of the flag, and its 24 spokes are a crucial part of its design. The flag is a symbol of national unity and pride, and the Ashoka Chakra represents the country's commitment to the principles of dharma and righteousness.

It is important to note that the number of spokes on the Ashoka Chakra is not arbitrary. The 24 spokes are a deliberate design choice that reflects the historical and cultural significance of the number 24 in Indian tradition. The Ashoka Chakra is a powerful symbol that embodies the values and aspirations of the Indian nation, and its 24 spokes are a key part of its meaning and symbolism.

Option Analysis:
  • Option A: Incorrect. The Chakra on the Indian national flag does not have 12 spokes. This number is not historically or symbolically significant in the context of the flag's design.
  • Option B: Incorrect. The Chakra on the Indian national flag does not have 18 spokes. This number is not associated with the flag's design or historical significance.
  • Option C: Correct. The Chakra on the Indian national flag has 24 spokes, symbolizing the 24 hours of the day and the eternal cycle of dharma.
  • Option D: Incorrect. The Chakra on the Indian national flag does not have 20 spokes. This number is not historically or symbolically significant in the context of the flag's design.

Mnemonic: Remember: "Chakra" sounds like "Chakra-24", hinting at the number of spokes.

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