Goa got freedom from Portuguese rule on 19th December,1961. The fight to end Portuguese colonial rule in Goa was put up bravely by the Indian Army. This day is now celebrated as the “Goa Liberation Day” every year.
This historic event is also popularly known as ‘Fight for Freedom – Operation Vijay’.
This year marks 50 years of the 1971 war and 60 years Goa’s liberation.
Goa Liberation Day Celebrations
On the occasion of Liberation Day, Prime Minister Modi would be a part of the celebrations at Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Stadium, Goa. He will honour the freedom fighters and veterans of Operation Vijay and will launch various development projects costing approximately Rs. 650 crores.
PM Modi will pay homage at Martyr’s Memorial at Azad Maidan in Panaji. He will also attend the Sail Parade and flypast at Miramar.
Goa Liberation Day is celebrated by the people of Goa with a lot of zeal and enthusiasm.
Interesting Facts about the Goa Liberation Day
Operation Vijay, which lasted just two days, ended 451 years of rule by the Portuguese in Goa – one of the longest colonial rules of India.
Kunhiraman Palat Candeth, a senior army officer, was made the Lieutenant Governor to look
after the administration after Goa was reclaimed. Later, a council of 29 elected representatives was appointed.
Goa was given statehood status on 30th May 1987.
Two Independence Days are celebrated in Goa – one on 15th August and the other on 19th
December.
This day also coincides with Daman and Diu Liberation Day. Goa, Daman, and Diu were all liberated during the same military operation.