First Woman President of Indian National Congress

The question asks to identify the person who holds the historic title of the First Woman President of the Indian National Congress (INC). This role is significant in the context of India's political history and the women's movement within the national struggle.

Understanding the INC Presidency

The Indian National Congress (INC) was a central organization in India's fight for independence. Leading the INC as its President was a position of great influence and responsibility.

Annie Besant's Historical Role

Annie Besant holds the distinction of being the First Woman President of the Indian National Congress. She was elected to this prestigious position in 1917 at the annual session held in Calcutta (now Kolkata). Annie Besant, an Irish nationalist and social activist, was a prominent figure in the Theosophical Society and a strong advocate for India's self-rule (Swaraj).

Distinguishing Key Figures

It's important to note the contributions of other notable women mentioned:

• Sarojini Naidu: While Annie Besant was the first woman president, Sarojini Naidu became the first Indian woman to preside over the INC in 1925.
• Vijayalakshmi Pandit: She was a prominent diplomat and politician, known for being the first Indian woman to hold a cabinet position in post-independence India and the first Asian woman to preside over the United Nations General Assembly.
• Indira Gandhi: She served as the Prime Minister of India for multiple terms, a significant political leadership role, but not the first INC presidency by a woman.

Summary

Based on historical records, Annie Besant was the first woman to be elected President of the Indian National Congress.