Answer:

Introduction

The Indian National Army (INA) was initially raised by Captain Mohan Singh during World War II.

Later, it was led by Subhas Chandra Bose with the aim of liberating India from British colonial rule.

Body

Factors linked to bedrock foundation of INA:

• Nationalistic Sentiment: The INA was born out of a strong sense of nationalistic fervour among Indian soldiers who sought to free their homeland from British colonial rule.
• Dissatisfaction with British Rule:  The  INA  arose  in The INA arose in response to the oppressive policies and discriminatory treatment by the British Raj. This mistreatment, along with the larger grievances fuelled discontentment and pushed some soldiers towards seeking an alternative path to freedom through the INA.
• Leadership of Subhas Chandra Bose: Subhas Chandra Bose, a charismatic and influential leader, played a pivotal role in its formation. Bose advocated for armed struggle against the British and established the Forward Bloc, which eventually led to the creation of the INA. His leadership and ideology inspired many Indians to join the movement.
• Impact of World War II: The outbreak of World War II presented an opportunity for Indians to challenge British rule. The war highlighted the contradiction between Britain’s claims of fighting for freedom and democracy while denying the same to its colonial subjects.
• Support from Axis Powers: During World War II, the INA found support from Japan and Germany, who saw an opportunity to exploit India’s desire for independence to weaken British colonialism.
• Mass Mobilization: Radio broadcasts, pamphlets, and speeches were used to galvanize Indians and recruit soldiers. The INA’s slogan of “Jai Hind” became a rallying cry for the freedom struggle.
  

How establishment of Indian National Army catalysed India’s struggle for independence:

• Azad Hind Government: It was formed by Bose in 1943 as a provisional government for free India and projected an alternate vision of post-independence India.
• Armed Struggle: It demonstrated the willingness of Indians to take up arms for their freedom. For instance, the INA’s actions in the Burma campaign during World War II showcased their military capabilities.
• Impact on British Forces: The INA’s successes in battles, such as the Siege of Imphal and the Battle of Kohima, created a sense of vulnerability and showcased the determination of Indian soldiers.
• Recruitment and Diversity: The recruitment of soldiers from different communities, such as Hindus, Muslims, and Sikhs, showcased the strength of a united India in the fight for independence. Example- Colonel Prem Sahgal, Colonel Gurbaksh Singh Dhillon, Gen Shah Nawaz Khan etc. 
• Impact on Indian Consciousness: It challenged the perception of British invincibility and showed that even within the British Indian Army, Indians could organize and fight for their freedom.
• INA trials: The popular upsurge against INA trials fuelled the spirit of nationalism and contributed to the momentum of the freedom struggle. The public sentiment and widespread protests against the trials eventually forced the British authorities to halt the proceedings

Conclusion

The Indian National Army played a crucial role in India’s struggle for independence. It revived nationalism, showcased armed resistance, garnered international support, united diverse communities, propagated nationalistic ideas, and became a symbol of sacrifice.

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