Previous Year Question
What was the name of the female Regiment constituted as a part of the Azad Hind Fauj by Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose?
Rani Jhansi Regiment
Veerangana Regiment
Bharat Mata Regiment
Rani Bhabani Regiment
Correct Answer: A
Detailed Solution
The women's military unit of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose's Azad Hind Fauj was known as the Rani of Jhansi Regiment.
Subhas Chandra Bose reorganised and activated the Indian National Army (INA) in Southeast Asia in 1943. During this period, a separate women's regiment was formed to give women a direct military role in the struggle for independence.
The regiment was named the Rani of Jhansi Regiment in honour of Rani Lakshmibai, the heroine of the Revolt of 1857. Rani Lakshmibai was a major symbol of armed resistance against British rule, which made her name particularly significant for this women's military unit.
The regiment was raised and trained principally in Malaya and Singapore. Many young women of Indian origin living in Southeast Asia joined it, including several who had never themselves seen India.
The regiment was led by Dr. Lakshmi Swaminathan, who later became widely known as Captain Lakshmi Sahgal. Government of India records identify her as a major leader of the Rani of Jhansi Regiment.
The Rani of Jhansi Regiment was not merely a symbolic women's organisation. It received military training and formed a genuine part of the INA's military structure during the Second World War. Its members were trained for different roles including medical, communication and military duties.
The formation of such a women's military unit also reflected Netaji's emphasis on giving women an equal role with men in the freedom struggle and public life.