Select the correct alternative on the given statements based on Ashoka’s Lion capital
and India’s State Emblem.
Statement I: In the original Ashoka’s Lion Capital, there are four lions mounted back
to-back on a circular abacus that itself rests on a bell-shaped lotus.
Statement II: The State Emblem is an adaptation of the Lion Capital of Asoka at
Sarnath in which the bell-shaped lotus was omitted.

Correct option is B

The correct answer is (b) Both Statement I and Statement II are true

• Statement I is true: The original Lion Capital of Ashoka, located at Sarnath, has four Asiatic lions standing back-to-back. These are mounted on a circular abacus with sculptures of an elephant, a horse, a bull, and a lion, separated by intervening spoked Dharma Chakras (Wheels of Law). The abacus rests on a bell-shaped lotus, which serves as the base.

• Statement II is also true: The State Emblem of India, adopted on 26 January 1950, is an adaptation of the Ashokan Lion Capital. However, in this version, only three lions are visible (the fourth is hidden from view), and the bell-shaped lotus base has been omitted. The motto “Satyameva Jayate” (Truth Alone Triumphs) is inscribed below in Devanagari script.

Information Booster:
• The Lion Capital was originally erected by Emperor Ashoka around 250 BCE at Sarnath.
• It symbolizes power, courage, pride, and confidence.
• The Ashoka Chakra (24-spoked wheel) below the lions is also featured in the center of India’s national flag.
• The State Emblem Act, 2005 prohibits misuse of the national emblem.
• The emblem is used by the Government of India, appearing on all official documents, currency, and passports.
• The original sculpture is now preserved in the Sarnath Museum, near Varanasi.