The Indian National Congress (INC) is the oldest political party in India, and it has played a crucial role in

shaping the country's political landscape. Founded in 1885, the INC has been at the forefront of India's
struggle for independence and has since then, remained a dominant force in Indian politics. The party has
witnessed numerous ups and downs, but its contribution to the country's growth and development cannot
be ignored.

The Indian National Congress was formed by a group of educated and well-traveled individuals, who were
inspired by the idea of a united and independent India. The founding members of the party included
prominent leaders like Allan Octavian Hume, Dadabhai Naoroji, and Dinshaw Edulji Wacha. The INC's
first president was Womesh Chunder Bonnerjee, a lawyer and a member of the Indian Civil Service.

In its early years, the INC focused on creating awareness and mobilizing people against the British colonial
rule. The party organized various public meetings and conferences, demanding administrative and political
reforms from the British government. The INC also played a crucial role in the Indian Independence
movement, and its leaders like Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, and Sardar Patel were instrumental in
leading the country towards freedom.

Under the guidance of Mahatma Gandhi, the INC adopted the non-violent approach of Satyagraha, which
played a significant role in India's struggle for independence. The party organized many non-violent
protests, boycotts, and civil disobedience movements, which shook the British rule and forced them to
grant independence to India in 1947.

After India gained independence, the INC became the ruling party, and Jawaharlal Nehru became the first
Prime Minister of the country. The party focused on rebuilding the nation, and under Nehru's leadership,
India made significant strides in various fields, including education, industrialization, and foreign relations.
The INC-led government also introduced various social welfare schemes and policies, which helped in
uplifting the marginalized sections of society.

However, the party faced its first major challenge in 1969 when it split into two factions, the Congress (O),
led by Indira Gandhi, and the Congress (R), led by Morarji Desai. This division was a result of ideological
differences and power struggle within the party. The Congress (O) faction later came to be known as the
Indian National Congress (Indira), and it emerged as the dominant party in Indian politics.

The INC has faced many challenges and obstacles in its journey, including internal conflicts and electoral
defeats. However, the party has always managed to bounce back and remain relevant in Indian politics.
The INC has also played a crucial role in shaping the country's economic policies, and its contributions to
the liberalization and globalization of the Indian economy cannot be ignored.

Today, the Indian National Congress is one of the major political parties in the country, with a presence in
almost every state. The party has played a significant role in the country's progress, and its leaders have
held important positions in the government, including the Prime Minister's office. The INC's contributions
to the country's political, social, and economic development are immense, and it continues to strive
towards the betterment of the nation.

In conclusion, the Indian National Congress has been an integral part of India's journey towards
independence and development. The party's rich history, contributions, and leadership have made it a
significant force in Indian politics. The INC's legacy and impact on the country will continue to inspire
generations to come.