Mains Daily Question
Dec. 7, 2023
Q.2) What impact did Subhas Chandra Bose have on India's fight for independence? How would the country's independence movement have been different without his contribution? (10M/150W)
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Approach to the answer: Understanding the question: The question talks about Subhash Chandra Bose and his contribution to the freedom struggle. The question also asks us to state what would have been the shape and form of the Indian freedom struggle without the contributions of Netaji. Thus, we must first list Bose’s contribution and then analyze the second aspect accordingly. Introduction: We can introduce the answer by either stating who was Subhash Chandra Bose? Or we can highlight some important contributions of Bose. Body: The directive used in the question is ‘what and how’, thus, we must in the first halve of the question enlist the contributions of Bose and then in the second halve, analyse the scenario in which Bose would’ve not made those contributions to freedom struggle and state its difference. Conclusion: We can conclude by either summarizing the arguments of body section or stating the significance of Bose’s contributions of freedom struggle. |
Answer:
Subhas Chandra Bose, affectionately known as Netaji, is widely regarded as one of the most influential freedom fighters in India's history. His exceptional leadership and charismatic oratory skills left an indelible mark on India's fight for independence. His contributions were diverse, ranging from leading the Indian National Congress (INC) to raising the Indian National Army (INA) on foreign soil.
Impact of Subhas Chandra Bose on India's Fight for Independence:
- Political Leadership: Bose played an active role in India's political landscape during the 1930s. He organized the All-Bengal Young Men's Conference, served as President of the INC (in 1938 and 1939), and led the All-India Forward Bloc.
- International Coordination: Bose tirelessly worked to garner support from Germany and Japan before and during World War II to aid in India's liberation from British rule.
- The Indian National Army (INA): With Japanese support, Bose reorganized the INA in Singapore in July 1943 and assumed its leadership. Comprising Indian POWs and plantation laborers from British Malaya, Singapore, and other Southeast Asian countries, the INA was created to fight against British forces.
- Azad Hind Government: Bose, with substantial Japanese assistance, formed the Azad Hind Government in exile.
Additional Impact of Subhas Chandra Bose:
- Trade union movements: He organised youth and promoted trade union movements. In 1930, he was elected Mayor of Calcutta, the same year he was elected the President of The All-India Trade Union Congress (AITUC).
- Mass Mobilization: Bose played a pivotal role in mobilising the masses and igniting the spirit of independence. Through the formation of the Azad Hind provincial government, he appealed directly to the Indian population for total mobilisation.
- Women Mobilisation: Bose emphasised the active participation of women in the freedom struggle. He advocated that women should be willing to make sacrifices for India's independence. The formation of the Rani of Jhansi Regiment in 1943 within the Azad Hind Fauj is a notable example.
- Youth Leadership: Bose recognized the importance of youth in the freedom movement. He actively engaged with and nurtured the Youth Leagues that emerged in various provinces during the 1920s.
India's Independence Movement without Bose's Contribution:
- Role of Youth: Bose played a unique role in shaping the youth's involvement in the freedom struggle, honing their skills and commitment.
- Socialism: Both Bose and Nehru championed socialist ideals, influencing the post-independence socio-economic framework.
- Notion of Complete Freedom: Bose advocated for immediate and complete independence, challenging the Congress's phased approach toward Dominion status.
- International Pressure: Bose's formation of the INA added to the mounting pressure on the British during World War II. The threat of Japanese invasion, accentuated by the INA's actions, influenced British proposals for larger reforms.
Throughout his life, Subhas Chandra Bose remained unwavering in his dedication to India's liberation from British rule. His contributions are monumental and place him on par with other celebrated freedom fighters in India's history.
