According to official Government of India notifications, which flower has been designated as the national flower of India?

Introduction / Context:
This question is from Indian national symbols and culture. Every country adopts symbols such as a national flag, national emblem, national bird and national flower to represent important cultural values. The question asks you to identify which flower is officially recognised as the national flower of India.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The subject is the national flower of India.
• Options include Lily, Rose, Lotus and Sunflower.
• We assume awareness of India's set of national symbols.
• The correct answer should match official recognition.

Concept / Approach:
The lotus is the national flower of India. It symbolises purity, spirituality and resilience, as it blooms beautifully even in muddy waters. Rose, lily and sunflower are popular flowers but are not designated as national symbols. Remembering the full list of national symbols helps in answering questions of this type with confidence.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Recall that India's national bird is the peacock, the national animal is the tiger and the national flower is the lotus. Step 2: Recognise that the lotus holds deep cultural and religious significance in India, appearing in art, mythology and temple iconography. Step 3: Compare this with the other flowers listed, which do not enjoy the same formal status as national symbols. Step 4: Confirm from memory or standard references that official lists mention lotus as the national flower. Step 5: Select lotus from the given options as the correct answer.

Verification / Alternative check:
Government publications, school textbooks and cultural reference books consistently list the lotus as India's national flower. It is often depicted in charts alongside other national symbols, such as the tricolour, the state emblem, the national bird and the national anthem, which confirms its status.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Lily: A beautiful flower used in decoration and ceremonies, but it is not recognised as the national flower of India.

Rose: Very popular in gardens and celebrations, but again not notified as the national flower.

Sunflower: Known for its bright appearance and oil seeds, but has no status as a national symbol in India.

Common Pitfalls:
Some learners may guess rose because it is globally popular or associate lily with religious imagery. Another mistake is to not revise national symbols and rely on guesswork. A quick revision of national animal, bird, flower, tree and other symbols can secure easy marks in such questions.

Final Answer:
The national flower of India is the Lotus.