On which date did the Constituent Assembly of India formally adopt the song "Jana Gana Mana" as the National Anthem of India?

Introduction / Context:

The National Anthem is a powerful symbol of national identity and unity. In India, the song "Jana Gana Mana" composed by Rabindranath Tagore was chosen as the National Anthem by the Constituent Assembly. Knowing the exact date on which it was formally adopted is a frequently asked static general knowledge question in competitive exams. It links the symbolism of the anthem with the historical process of constitution making and the birth of the Republic.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The question deals with the formal adoption of "Jana Gana Mana" as the National Anthem of India.
• The adopting authority was the Constituent Assembly of India.
• The options list four dates in 1949 and 1950.
• You are expected to recall the specific date associated with this decision.

Concept / Approach:

The correct date is closely connected to the timeline of India becoming a Republic. The Constitution came into effect on 26 January 1950, and shortly before that, the Constituent Assembly handled several symbolic decisions, including adoption of the National Flag and the National Anthem. The Constituent Assembly officially adopted "Jana Gana Mana" as the National Anthem on 24 January 1950. Recognising this link to Republic Day helps you fix the correct date in memory.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:

One way to verify is to remember that several key resolutions of the Constituent Assembly, such as the election of the first President of India and final ceremonial steps towards the Republic, were completed around 24 January 1950. Official records and standard reference books on the Indian Constitution clearly state that "Jana Gana Mana" was adopted as the National Anthem on that date. Since the other dates in 1949 or mid 1950 do not match this record, 24 January 1950 is confirmed as the correct answer.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

Option A, 24th May 1949, is too early and does not coincide with the final stages of constitution framing and preparation for Republic Day. Option B, 24th November 1949, is close to the date when the Constitution was adopted by the Assembly but not yet in force and is not the official date for the anthem decision. Option D, 24th June 1950, comes after the Constitution had already come into effect and does not correspond to any major event involving the adoption of national symbols. Therefore, these dates do not match the documented decision about the anthem.

Common Pitfalls:

A common difficulty is mixing up the dates related to adoption of the Constitution, its commencement, and adoption of the National Anthem and National Flag. Candidates sometimes assume that the anthem was adopted on 26 January 1950 or on the same date the Constitution was adopted in November 1949. To avoid confusion, remember that 24 January 1950 is the specific date for adoption of "Jana Gana Mana" as the anthem, just two days before the Constitution came into force.

Final Answer:

The Constituent Assembly of India formally adopted "Jana Gana Mana" as the National Anthem of India on 24th January 1950.