Goa, Daman and Diu liberation day: Tributes paid to freedom fighters

The nation on Friday commemorated Goa, Daman, and Diu Liberation Day , reflecting on the courage of freedom fighters who ended over four centuries of Portuguese rule in these territories. The day marks a defining chapter in India’s journey to complete independence.

Unlike the rest of India, which gained freedom from the British in 1947, Goa, Daman, and Diu remained under Portuguese control . Many patriots, including Prabhakar Vaidya, Bala Raya Mapari, Nanaji Deshmukh, and Jagannath Rao Joshi, resisted colonial rule through protests and political activism. Their perseverance culminated in Operation Vijay in December 1961 , a swift military action by the Indian armed forces that liberated the territories and integrated them into the Indian Union. The brief conflict, which lasted just over 36 hours , resulted in the deaths of 22 Indian and 30 Portuguese soldiers , a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made in the struggle for freedom.

On the occasion, tributes were paid by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the freedom fighters, who were remembered for their courage and sacrifice. He said on X that their sacrifices are remembered and continue to inspire efforts for the all-round progress of these territories.

In Goa , the national flag was hoisted by Chief Minister Pramod Sawant at his residences in Sanquelim and Altinho, Panjim, and he attended the official event at the Dr Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Indoor Stadium in Dona Paula. Sawant said that freedom fighters are honored by building a Goa that is strong, inclusive, and forward-looking.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah extended his greetings, stating that the sacrifices of the patriots are remembered with gratitude for making Goa, Daman, and Diu an integral part of India.

Goa, Daman, and Diu Liberation Day , observed on December 19 each year, is marked to celebrate the bravery of those who fought for freedom and the integration of these territories into India.