Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with veterans of the Azad Hind Fauj, also known as the Indian National Army (INA), during his official visit to Malaysia. One of the veterans he interacted with was Jeyaraj Raja Rao, which he described as deeply inspiring. PM Modi expressed his gratitude to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose and the brave individuals of the INA for their contributions to India’s history.
During a press conference, Ministry of External Affairs Secretary (East) Periasamy Kumaran highlighted the significance of PM Modi’s meeting with the INA veterans. He praised the Prime Minister’s interaction with the surviving members of the Indian National Army as a special moment. PM Modi also acknowledged the sacrifices made by the Indian diaspora in Malaysia during India’s struggle for independence.
Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose took charge of the Indian National Army in Southeast Asia in 1943, where he reorganized and expanded the force. The INA, with notable units like the Rani of Jhansi Regiment, played a symbolic role in India’s freedom movement. The historical connection of the INA to the Indian diaspora in Malaysia and Singapore remains strong, reflecting the legacy of the force in the region.
