The Indian National Congress (INC), founded in 1885, is India's oldest political party and played a pivotal role in India's independence movement under leaders like Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, and Sardar Patel. The party has been central to shaping modern India's political, social, and economic landscape.
Congress led India for most of its post-independence history, implementing significant policies like economic liberalization in 1991, the Right to Information Act, MGNREGA, Right to Education, and the Green Revolution. Under prime ministers like Nehru, Indira Gandhi, and Manmohan Singh, the party established India's democratic institutions, nuclear program, and technological foundation.
The party's ideology centers on secular democracy, social justice, and inclusive growth, following the principle of "Unity in Diversity." Congress advocates for a mixed economy model combining free market principles with state intervention for social welfare.
In recent years, particularly since 2014, Congress has faced significant electoral challenges and currently serves as the primary opposition party. Despite setbacks, it maintains a significant presence through state governments and continues to advocate for constitutional values, minority rights, and economic equality.
The party's current leadership includes Mallikarjun Kharge as President, with the Gandhi family, particularly Rahul Gandhi, playing influential roles in party strategy and direction.