India had declared the lion as its national animal.

_{On 9 July 1969, India declared lion as its national animal.}

_{Until 1972, the Asiatic lion held this status.}

_{However, on 18 November 1972, the Royal Bengal Tiger — a majestic and powerful creature — was designated as the new national animal.}

_{This status was officially conferred in April 1973.}

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