Who was the first female Prime Minister of India?

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The first female Prime Minister of India was Indira Gandhi. She served as the Prime Minister of India in two separate terms: her first term from 1966 to 1977 and her second term from 1980 until her assassination in 1984. Indira Gandhi remains one of India Phone Number List the most significant and influential political figures in India’s modern history.

Early Life and Background
Indira Gandhi was born on November 19, 1917, in Allahabad (now Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh) to Jawaharlal Nehru, the first Prime Minister of independent India. Growing up in a politically active family, she was deeply influenced by the Indian freedom movement and the legacy of leadership established by her father.

Indira Gandhi's early education took her to prominent institutions like Shakespeare’s Newnham College at Cambridge University and later studies at the Sorbitre University in Paris. Her exposure to political discussions and her family's role in India's independence shaped her political consciousness.



Political Career
Indira Gandhi entered politics in the 1960s, taking a prominent role in the Indian National Congress party. Her political journey began as her father’s assistant and later led to her becoming the central figure of the Congress party.

In 1966, Indira Gandhi became the Prime Minister of India for the first time, succeeding Lal Bahadur Shastri after his death. Her leadership style was strong and assertive, and she became known for her ability to navigate political challenges and implement reforms.

Key Achievements as Prime Minister
Indira Gandhi's tenure saw several significant political and economic developments:

The Emergency (1975-1977): Indira Gandhi declared a state of emergency across the country in response to political instability. While it allowed her to suppress dissent, it drew criticism for curbing civil liberties.
Green Revolution: Her government emphasized agricultural reforms, which led to greater food production and self-sufficiency.
India's Nuclear Program: Indira Gandhi promoted India's nuclear ambitions, laying the foundation for a robust defense program.
Second Term and Assassination: In 1980, she returned as Prime Minister but faced rising political tensions. On October 31, 1984, she was assassinated by her bodyguards in retaliation for military actions in Punjab.
Legacy
Indira Gandhi remains remembered for her strong political USA Phone number Database leadership, her role in shaping India’s policies, and her contributions to India’s modernization and nuclear program. Despite controversies surrounding her political decisions, she is celebrated for breaking gender barriers in Indian politics, becoming a role model for women in leadership.

Indira Gandhi's leadership and vision continue to influence Indian political life, marking her as one of the most iconic figures in the nation’s history.