Which one of the following statements about the national symbols of India is not correct?

Introduction / Context:

This question tests general knowledge of the official national symbols of India. National symbols such as the national bird, animal, flower and tree represent cultural heritage and natural wealth. Candidates preparing for competitive exams are expected to know these symbols and their correct scientific or common names.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Pavo cristatus refers to the Indian peafowl or peacock.
• Nelumbo nucifera is the scientific name of the lotus flower.
• Ficus benghalensis denotes the banyan tree.
• Mangifera indica is the scientific name of the mango tree.
• Panthera tigris, specifically the Bengal tiger, is widely known as the national animal of India.

Concept / Approach:

India has officially designated several natural symbols. The national bird is the Indian peafowl, the national animal is the tiger, the national flower is the lotus and the national tree is the banyan. The approach is simply to match each scientific name with the correct status and identify any mismatched description. If a statement assigns the wrong status, such as calling a national fruit a national animal, that statement is not correct.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:

Standard general knowledge books and government publications list India national symbols clearly. These sources consistently state that the national animal is the tiger, the national bird is the peafowl, the national flower is the lotus and the national tree is the banyan. The mango is indeed recognised as the national fruit. Therefore any statement calling Mangifera indica the national animal is mislabelled and thus incorrect.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

The statement about Pavo cristatus as the national bird is correct, as the Indian peafowl has long held this status. The description of Nelumbo nucifera as the national flower is accurate and widely accepted. The identification of Ficus benghalensis as the national tree is also correct, representing longevity and strength. The statement mentioning Panthera tigris as the national animal is factually correct. Only the option that calls Mangifera indica the national animal misrepresents the symbol and is therefore the not correct statement.

Common Pitfalls:

Learners sometimes confuse the many national symbols, especially when presented with scientific names rather than common names. Another frequent error is to overlook that the mango is already honoured as the national fruit and to accept the wrong status in haste. Careful reading and basic familiarity with both scientific and common names help to avoid these mistakes in exams.

Final Answer:

The statement that is not correct is: Mangifera indica, the mango, is the national animal of India.