The Indian National Congress (INC), founded on 28 December 1885 in Bombay, is the oldest political party in India. Initially created to provide a platform for dialogue between Indians and British rulers, it evolved into the leading force behind India’s freedom movement. Under the leadership of iconic figures like Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, Sardar Patel, and Subhas Chandra Bose, the Congress Party led key campaigns such as the Non-Cooperation Movement, Civil Disobedience Movement, and Quit India Movement.

After independence, the INC became the dominant ruling party, shaping India’s early governance, economy, and institutions. It introduced reforms like the Green Revolution, bank nationalization, and liberalization policies in 1991. Leaders like Indira Gandhi, Rajiv Gandhi, Sonia Gandhi, and Dr. Manmohan Singh carried forward its legacy.

Today, while its dominance has declined, the Congress remains a major opposition force and continues to play a significant role in shaping India’s democratic and social fabric.