Goa Liberation Day 2025 is observed on 19 December across the state of Goa with pride and patriotic fervour. This day commemorates the historic liberation of Goa from over 450 years of Portuguese colonial rule in 1961. It honors the bravery of the Indian armed forces, the sacrifices of freedom fighters, and the long struggle of Goans for self-rule. Though India became independent in 1947 Goa’s freedom came later, making this day a crucial chapter in India’s post-independence history.
Goa’s Colonial Rule
- Goa, located on India’s southwestern coast, was under Portuguese control since 1510.
- Even after India achieved independence on 15 August 1947, Goa, Daman, and Diu continued to remain Portuguese territories.
- India initially pursued a peaceful and diplomatic approach to secure Goa’s integration, but Portugal refused to negotiate, claiming Goa as an overseas province rather than a colony.
- The situation was further complicated as Portugal was a member of NATO, and India was cautious about escalating tensions with a Western military alliance.
Freedom Struggle in Goa
- The Goan freedom movement gained momentum on 18 June 1946, when Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia and Dr. Juliao Menezes defied the Portuguese ban on public meetings.
- Though the initial civil disobedience movements were suppressed, they inspired widespread resistance among Goans.
- Over the years, protests, underground movements, and political mobilization continued.
- Despite repression the demand for liberation remained strong, making Goa’s struggle an important yet often under-recognized part of India’s freedom movement.
Operation Vijay and Liberation of Goa
- The turning point came in December 1961, after Portuguese forces fired upon Indian fishermen and attempted to take Indian villagers hostage.
- Following this provocation, Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, on the advice of Defense Minister V. K. Krishna Menon, authorised military action.
- Operation Vijay was launched on 18 December 1961, involving nearly 30,000 Indian troops, supported by the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force.
- The operation lasted less than 48 hours, and on 19 December 1961, Goa was officially liberated, ending 451 years of Portuguese rule.
After Liberation
- Following liberation, Goa was administered as a Union Territory, along with Daman and Diu.
- Major General Kunhiraman Palat Candeth was appointed as the first Lieutenant Governor, entrusted with overseeing the transition and administration.
- Goa later achieved full statehood on 30 May 1987, becoming India’s 25th state, while Daman and Diu remained a Union Territory.
- This marked Goa’s full constitutional integration into the Indian Union.
Significance of Goa Liberation Day
- Goa Liberation Day holds immense national importance.
- It symbolizes the final end of European colonialism in India and reaffirms India’s commitment to territorial integrity and sovereignty.
- The liberation demonstrated India’s resolve to protect its people and complete national unification.
- The day also honors the sacrifices of soldiers and freedom fighters.
- During Operation Vijay 22 Indian soldiers and around 30 Portuguese soldiers lost their lives.
- Their sacrifice is remembered as a contribution to India’s unity and freedom.
How Goa Liberation Day Is Celebrated
- Goa Liberation Day is celebrated with enthusiasm across the state.
- The Governor and Chief Minister pay tributes to martyrs and extend greetings to citizens.
- Torchlight rallies, memorial services, and patriotic programmes are organized at various locations.
- Cultural events showcasing Goa’s rich heritage, music, and traditions are also held.
- These celebrations not only honor history but also strengthen the sense of identity and pride among Goans.
Key Takeaways
- Goa Liberation Day is observed on 19 December every year.
- Goa was liberated from Portuguese rule in 1961 through Operation Vijay.
- Portuguese rule in Goa lasted for over 450 years.
- Operation Vijay lasted less than 48 hours.
- 22 Indian soldiers were killed during the operation.
- Goa became a Union Territory in 1961 and a full-fledged state in 1987.
Question
Q. What was the name of the Indian military operation that liberated Goa in December 1961?
(A) Operation Blue Star
(B) Operation Vijay
(C) Operation Flood
(D) Operation Trident