SSC CHSL GK GS Indian National Congress by Aditya Sir

The Indian National Congress is an important topic for SSC CHSL General Knowledge and General Studies. It plays a significant role in India’s freedom struggle and political development. Aspirants should focus on key areas such as its formation in 1885, the objectives behind its establishment, early sessions, and prominent leaders.

Questions are frequently asked about important events, presidents of various sessions, and the organization’s contribution to the national movement, making it a high-weightage topic in the exam.

About the Indian National Congress

The Indian National Congress was formed in 1885. It played a major role in India’s freedom movement. It started as a political platform for Indian leaders. The aim was to discuss issues with the British government in an organized way. 

The early goal was not complete independence. It focused on reforms and better representation for Indians. Over time, it became the main organization that led the freedom struggle.

INC Foundation and Early Years

The INC was not always the name of the party. It started as the Indian National Union in 1884. It was founded by A.O. Hume, a retired British officer. In 1885, the name was changed to the Indian National Congress on the advice of Dada Bhai Naoroji.

• First Session (1885): Held in Bombay at Gokuldas Tejpal Sanskrit School.

• First President: W.C. Banerjee.

• Attendees: 72 delegates took part in the first meeting.

• The "Safety Valve" Theory: Some leaders, like Lala Lajpat Rai, believed the British created the INC to stop a violent revolution by giving Indians a peaceful way to speak.

Milestone Sessions of the INC

The Congress met every year in different cities. Some of these sessions are very famous because of the decisions made there.

INC Important Leaders and Their Contributions

The Indian National Congress was shaped by several leaders who played key roles in different phases of the freedom movement. Their ideas influenced political thinking across India.

• Dada Bhai Naoroji: Known as the "Grand Old Man of India." He focused on the economic drain of India.

• Bal Gangadhar Tilak: A fierce leader who said, "Swaraj is my birthright."

• Subhas Chandra Bose: He became President in 1938 and 1939. He later left to follow a more radical path.

• Maulana Abul Kalam Azad: He was the longest-serving President during World War II.

• J.B. Kripalani: He was the President when India finally became independent in 1947.

Indian National Congress - Key Facts for SSC Exams

Important facts from Congress history are often asked in exams like SSC CHSL. These facts are useful for quick revision and recall.

1. Vande Mataram was first sung in 1896.

2. Jana Gana Mana was first sung in 1911.

3. The Tricolor flag was first hoisted in 1930 on the banks of the Ravi River.

4. The resolution for Fundamental Rights was passed in the 1931 Karachi session.

Understanding the Indian National Congress is essential for scoring well in General Awareness. Focus on the names of the first presidents and the years of major changes like the Surat Split or the Lahore Resolution.