Discuss the contributions of INA in the freedom struggle.

The Indian National Army (INA), also called Azad Hind Fauj, was formed with the aim of securing India’s freedom from British rule. It consisted mainly of Indian prisoners of war and was led by Subhas Chandra Bose, who became its Supreme Commander.

1. In 1943, the Azad Hind Fauj was formed in Singapore, and India’s flag was hoisted on the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, then under Japanese control.
2. The INA advanced to Imphal and Kohima in cooperation with the Japanese army, challenging British control, though the victory was short-lived.
3. Slogans like “Dilli Chalo” and “Jai Hind” became sources of motivation for the masses.
4. The British trial of INA officers (Shah Nawaz Khan, P.R. Sehgal, and G.S. Dhillon) at Red Fort sparked nationwide protests, pressuring the government to release all INA prisoners.
5. Indians of all religions and castes united under a common goal of freedom.