Who Was India's First Woman Prime Minister?

Indira Gandhi, who was born on November 19, 1917, in Allahabad, India, was a revolutionary political figure and the first female Prime Minister of India. Indira Gandhi is still one of the most powerful personalities in the political history of India because of her revolutionary policies, leadership skills, and contested moves. As the daughter of Jawaharlal Nehru, India's first Prime Minister, she carried with her the heritage of public life and politics.

Early Life and Political Ascendancy

Indira Gandhi was raised in a politically volatile atmosphere in India's fight for independence. She was educated at institutions such as Visva-Bharati University in India and the University of Oxford in England. In 1938, she became a member of the Indian National Congress (INC), the start of her political career. After India became independent in 1947, she was the confidante and unofficial advisor to her father when he held office as Prime Minister.

Also Read | Who Was India's First Woman Doctor?

Following Nehru's death in 1964, Indira Gandhi joined active politics and was made the Minister of Information and Broadcasting by Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri. With Shastri's untimely death in 1966, she was chosen as a compromise Prime Minister candidate over Morarji Desai. She was initially viewed as a titular head by top Congress leaders but soon proved to be a skilled politician and a decisive leader.

Tenure as Prime Minister

Indira Gandhi was Prime Minister from 1966 to 1977 and then from 1980 until her assassination in 1984. Her leadership was characterized by notable accomplishments and controversies:

• Economic Reforms and Social Programs: Gandhi advocated policies to combat poverty and inequality. Her election campaign slogan "Garibi Hatao" (Remove Poverty) struck a chord with millions. She nationalized banks in 1969 to enhance financial inclusion and enacted land reforms for the benefit of marginalized farmers.
• 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War: Her most prominent success was India's comprehensive win over Pakistan in the 1971 war, which gave birth to Bangladesh. It solidified India as a regional power.
• Nuclear Program: During her rule, India successfully tested its first nuclear device at Pokhran in 1974, establishing its place on the international stage.
• The Emergency (1975–1977): Perhaps the most controversial phase of her tenure was the imposition of a state of emergency in 1975 after a court judgment annulled her election on grounds of electoral malpractices. The period saw the suspension of civil liberties, imprisonment of political rivals, and curbs on press freedom. Although the action consolidated her authority in the short term, it undermined her democratic image.
• Return to Power: Losing the 1977 elections to widespread opposition over the Emergency, Gandhi made an incredible political revival in 1980.

 Also Read | Who Was India's First Woman Teacher?

Challenges and Assassination

The early 1980s experienced growing separatist movements in Punjab and elsewhere. In response to Sikh militancy, she ordered Operation Blue Star in 1984, military action at the Golden Temple of Amritsar. This further alienated the Sikhs and resulted in her assassination on 31 October 1984, by her Sikh bodyguards.

Legacy

Indira Gandhi’s legacy is both celebrated and debated. She is remembered as a strong-willed leader who modernized India’s economy and strengthened its international standing. However, her authoritarian tendencies during the Emergency remain a point of contention. Her leadership style earned her the title "Iron Lady," reflecting her resilience and determination.

 Also Read | Who Was India's First Woman Pilot?

Indira Gandhi’s life symbolizes both the possibilities and challenges of leadership in a diverse democracy like India. As India’s first female Prime Minister, she broke barriers and left an indelible mark on the nation’s history.