Q5(a). Describe the role and achievement of “Azad Hind Fauj” or “Indian National Army (INA)” in the struggle for independence.

“Freedom is not given, it is taken.” Subhas Chandra Bose

The Azad Hind Fauj (Indian National Army), revived by Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose in 1943, played a transformative role in India’s freedom struggle by shifting the movement from passive resistance to militant nationalism. Formed with the support of Japan and Indian expatriates in Southeast Asia, INA aimed to liberate India militarily.

Role and Achievements

• Military Campaigns: INA fought alongside Japanese forces in Imphal and Kohima (1944). Though militarily unsuccessful, the campaigns demonstrated Indian soldiers’ determination to fight for national liberation.
• Provisional Government of Azad Hind (1943): Bose established a government-in-exile recognized by several countries. It issued its own currency, stamps, and declared war against Britain strengthening the legitimacy of the armed struggle.
• Women’s Regiment (Rani Jhansi Regiment): INA created the first all-women combat regiment in modern Indian history, symbolizing gender empowerment and national awakening.
• Psychological and Political Impact: The INA trials (Red Fort Trials, 1945–46) generated massive public outrage across India. Revolts in the Royal Indian Navy (RIN Mutiny 1946) and rising nationalist sentiment convinced the British that they could no longer rely on Indian forces to maintain colonial rule.
• Nationwide Mobilization: INA became a symbol of unity across caste, region, and religion igniting patriotism and accelerating the demand for complete independence.

INA’s greatest achievement was its ability to break the moral and psychological foundation of British authority in India, hastening independence in 1947.