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Indira Feroze Gandhi • Born : 19th November, 1917 • Died : 31st October, 1984 |
- Was the daughter of Jawaharlal Nehru, the first Prime Minister of India.
- Created the 'Vanar Sean' movement for young children who played a notable role in Indian Independence Movement.
- Married to Feroze Gandhi in 1942 and both took active part in 'Quit India' Movement and were arrested and jailed in 1942.
- Served as President of Indian National Congress in 1959-1960.
- Became the first woman Prime Minister of India in 1966 and remained in power till 1977.
- In 1971, led India in a successful war against Pakistan, to separate East & West Pakistan and establish the nation of Bangla Desh.
- She declared state of 'Emergency' and assumed emergency powers in 1975.
- Was defeated in 1977 elections but became victorious in 1980 general elections.
- In 1984, she ordered 'Operation Bluestar' to storm the Golden Temple of Amritsar which was converted into an armory.
- Was assassinated by her sikh bodyguards on October 31, 1984.
- Was awarded Bharat Ratna in 1972.
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