The Indian National Army and Subhash Bose: A Comprehensive Overview of Bose's Early Life, Struggles, INA's Formation and Campaigns, and Its Legacy.

Subhash Chandra Bose, remembered as Netaji, was among the most influential leaders of India’s freedom movement. His militant approach, uncompromising spirit, and role in building the Indian National Army (INA) gave a new dimension to India’s fight against British colonialism. This structured overview presents his early life, political journey, INA leadership, military campaigns, and legacy in a student-friendly format.

Subhash Chandra Bose and the Indian National Army: Early Life, Political Journey, Leadership, and Legacy

• Subhash Bose’s early life and political involvement shaped his revolutionary path
  • (i) Known for his militant reactions against European insults to Indians.
  • (ii) Secured 4th rank in Indian Civil Services exam but resigned in 1921 to join the freedom struggle.
  • (iii) Guided by his mentor Chittaranjan Das, he rose to become mayor of Calcutta in 1923.
  • (iv) Grew disillusioned with Gandhi’s methods and resolved to pursue an independent revolutionary path.

• Anti-Compromise Conference, German Connection, and Formation of the INA

  Bose’s radical initiatives, beginning with the Anti-Compromise Conference of 1940, soon expanded internationally. His daring escape, alliance with Germany and Japan, and eventual leadership of the Indian National Army transformed the nationalist movement into a global armed resistance.

  • The Anti-Compromise Conference and Early Struggles

    • (i) In March 1940, convened the Anti-Compromise Conference at Ramgarh to oppose British exploitation.
    • (ii) On April 6, 1940 (National Week), urged resistance against Britain’s imperial war efforts.
    • (iii) Arrested in July 1940, launched a hunger strike, and later escaped house arrest in January 1941 via Peshawar.

  • Bose’s Journey to Germany and the Freedom Army

    • (i) Reached Germany under the alias Orlando Mazzotta and met Hitler.
    • (ii) With Axis support, formed the Mukti Sena (Freedom Army) at Dresden, comprising Indian POWs.
    • (iii) Popularized the slogan “Jai Hind” through the Free India Centre in Germany.
    • (iv) In 1943, moved to Japan and Singapore to take charge of the Indian National Army.

  • Origin and First Phase of the INA

    • (i) Concept originated with Mohan Singh, who recruited Indian POWs in Malaya with Japanese support.
    • (ii) By 1942, the INA strength rose to 40,000 troops.
    • (iii) The INA was to act under the Congress’ guidance, guarding against Japanese misconduct.
    • (iv) Later disagreements led to Mohan Singh’s detention by the Japanese.

  • Bose’s Leadership in the INA

    • (i) Arrived in Tokyo in June 1943 and soon took over leadership from Rashbehari Bose.
    • (ii) Became Supreme Commander of the INA on August 25, 1943.
    • (iii) Formed the Provisional Government of Free India on October 21, 1943, at Singapore.
    • (iv) Coined the legendary slogan “Give me blood, and I will give you freedom” in Malaya, rallying soldiers with “Chalo Delhi!”

  • The INA Campaign and Its Decline

    • (i) Advanced to Kohima and Imphal, with the INA flag raised at Moirang (Manipur) in April 1944.
    • (ii) Faced discrimination by the Japanese in rations and arms supply, weakening morale.
    • (iii) Defeat followed Japan’s surrender on August 15, 1945.
    • (iv) Subhash Bose reportedly died in a plane crash on August 18, 1945, though his death remains debated.

• Evaluation and Legacy of Subhash Chandra Bose and the INA

  The INA’s defeat did not diminish its impact. Bose’s leadership and slogans left a deep imprint on India’s struggle. The INA trials of 1945–46 stirred nationalist sentiments across the country, compelling even the British authorities to realize that their days in India were numbered. Netaji’s legacy remains that of a fearless patriot whose uncompromising spirit inspired generations.

  • Ideological Contribution

    • (i) Introduced a militant alternative to Gandhian non-violence.
    • (ii) Promoted unity among Indians irrespective of religion or region.
    • (iii) Gave iconic slogans like “Jai Hind” and “Chalo Delhi”.

  • INA Trials and Nationalist Awakening

    • (i) Court-martial of INA officers triggered nationwide protests.
    • (ii) Inspired Indian soldiers in the British Army to question their loyalty.
    • (iii) Strengthened the push towards independence in 1947.