Explanations:The Indian National Congress (INC) is one of the oldest and most significant political parties in India. It was founded in 1885 by Allan Octavian Hume, a retired British civil servant who had a keen interest in Indian politics and the welfare of the Indian people. Hume was instrumental in bringing together various Indian leaders and intellectuals to form a platform for discussing and addressing the issues faced by the Indian people under British rule.
The first session of the Indian National Congress was held in Bombay (now Mumbai) from December 28 to December 31, 1885. This session was attended by 72 delegates from different parts of India, representing a wide range of interests and backgrounds. The primary objective of the INC at its inception was to promote the welfare of the Indian people and to work towards the establishment of a democratic government in India.
It is important to note that while W.C. Bonnerjee was a significant figure in the early years of the Indian National Congress, he was not its founder. Bonnerjee became the first Indian president of the INC in 1886, the year following the first session. Mahatma Gandhi, on the other hand, joined the Indian National Congress much later, in 1919, and became a prominent leader in the party's struggle for Indian independence.
The INC played a crucial role in India's struggle for independence from British rule. It was a platform for various leaders and movements, including the Non-Cooperation Movement, the Civil Disobedience Movement, and the Quit India Movement. The party's efforts were instrumental in achieving India's independence in 1947.
Understanding the founding of the Indian National Congress and the location of its first session is essential for comprehending the historical context of India's nationalist movement and the role of various leaders in the struggle for independence. This knowledge is particularly relevant for students preparing for competitive examinations such as the UPSC, SSC, and Civil Services, where questions on Indian history and political movements are common.