Explanations:The Indian National Congress (INC) is a political party that has played a pivotal role in the history of India, particularly during the struggle for independence from British rule. The party was founded in 1885 and has since been a significant force in Indian politics. The first meeting of the Indian National Congress was held in Bombay (now known as Mumbai) in December 1885.
The choice of Bombay as the location for the first meeting was strategic. Bombay was a major city and port in British India, and it was a hub of economic and political activity. The city's prominence made it an ideal location for the founding of a political organization that aimed to represent the interests of Indians and to work towards self-governance and eventual independence.
The Indian National Congress was founded by A.O. Hume, a retired British civil servant, and other Indian leaders such as W.C. Bonnerjee, A. N. Mehta, and G. Subramaniya Iyer. The primary objective of the INC was to promote the political and social interests of Indians and to work towards the establishment of a democratic government in India. The first meeting was attended by 72 delegates from various parts of India, representing a diverse range of interests and backgrounds.
Over the years, the Indian National Congress has been involved in numerous significant events and movements in Indian history. It played a crucial role in the Indian independence movement, with leaders such as Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, and Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel leading the party and the nation towards independence. The party has also been a dominant force in Indian politics since independence, with many of its leaders serving as Prime Ministers of India.
Understanding the historical context and significance of the first meeting of the Indian National Congress is essential for students preparing for competitive examinations such as the UPSC, SSC, and State PSC. It is important to remember that the first meeting was held in Bombay, which was a strategic choice due to the city's importance in the 19th century.