UPSC CSE Prelims 2004, Paper I

Indian National Symbols & Literature

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

From where the word 'Satyameva Jayate' taken?

Solution & Analysis

Answer: D

Concept 'Satyameva Jayate' (Truth alone triumphs) is the national motto of India, inscribed at the base of the Lion Capital of Ashoka.

Explanation The phrase is a mantra from the ancient Indian scripture, the Mundaka Upanishad (3.1.6).

Logical Breakup
Logic 1: It is specifically part of the Atharva Veda's philosophical section (Upanishads).
Logic 2: While the Rig Veda is the oldest, and the Gita is most popular, this specific philosophical assertion originates in the Mundaka Upanishad.

Active Recall

Question

Who was responsible for making 'Satyameva Jayate' popular in modern India?

Answer

Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya is credited with popularizing the slogan during the Indian independence movement.

Core Insight

The selection of this motto for the modern republic reflects the enduring value of Vedic philosophical inquiry into the nature of Truth.