The Great Bengal Famine occurred between 1943 and 1944 in the province of Bengal, India, leading to the deaths of an estimated 2 to 3 million people. The famine was caused by a combination of factors, including wartime policies, crop failures, and the diversion of food supplies to support the British war effort during World War II. The British government, led by Winston Churchill, faced criticism for its handling of the crisis. Despite the severe food shortages, little aid was provided to the affected population, exacerbating the suffering. The famine highlighted the vulnerabilities in food distribution and the impact of colonial policies on local communities.