Question

Discuss any four steps taken by Subhash Chandra Bose to revive and reorganise the Indian National Army after taking over as its Supreme Commander.

Answer 1

• Massive recruitment and expansion: Bose quickly recruited and expanded the INA. He recruited persons and material from the Southeast Asian Indian diaspora. His call appealed to refugees, from barristers to plantation workers, who joined the INA without military experience. From 12,000 to over 40,000 soldiers, including the first Asian women’s regiment, the Rani of Jhansi Regiment.
• Establishment of the Provisional Government of Azad Hind: In Singapore, Bose founded the Arzi Hukumat-e-Azad Hind (Provisional Government of Free India) on October 21, 1943. This government declared war on Britain and the US and had its own currency, court, and civil code. Nine nations, including Japan, Germany, and Italy, recognized it, justifying the independence cause.
• Mobilizing financial resources and public support: Historians call Bose’s work a “public relations masterpiece.” He received significant funding from the Indian diaspora in Japanese-occupied Southeast Asia. Many Indians gave their life savings. His motto, “Give me blood, and I shall give you freedom,” shook Indian communities.
• Reorganizing military structure and launching offensive: Bose selected Lt. Col. Shah Nawaz Khan Chief of General Staff and Major P.K. Sahgal Military Secretary to reform the INA. In 1944, he led the Imphal offensive to conquer India. For the first time on Indian soil, the INA raised the tricolour at Moirang, Manipur. Though unsuccessful militarily, this showed the INA’s capability and dedication.