Goa Liberation day?
VerifiedAnswer: 19 December 1961
Explanation:
Goa Liberation Day is celebrated on 19 December 1961 to commemorate the liberation of Goa from Portuguese colonial rule. This historic day marks the end of over 450 years of Portuguese occupation in the Indian subcontinent, making it one of the most significant events in India's post-independence history.
The Portuguese had established their presence in Goa in 1510 under Alfonso de Albuquerque. Even after India gained independence in 1947, Portugal refused to give up its territories in Goa, Daman, and Diu. Despite diplomatic efforts and negotiations, the Portuguese government remained adamant about retaining control over these regions.
By 1961, Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru decided that military action was necessary to liberate these territories. On 18 December 1961, the Indian Armed Forces launched Operation Vijay, a well-coordinated military operation involving the Army, Navy, and Air Force. The operation was swift and decisive, lasting only 26 hours.
The key events of the liberation included:
• Naval blockade of Goan ports by Indian warships • Air strikes on Portuguese military installations • Ground assault by Indian Army troops from multiple directions • Minimal resistance from Portuguese forces • Official surrender of Portuguese Governor-General Manuel António Vassalo e Silva
The success of Operation Vijay was remarkable - Indian forces suffered minimal casualties while effectively liberating all Portuguese territories. The operation demonstrated India's military capabilities and determination to complete its territorial integrity. On 19 December 1961, the Indian tricolor was hoisted in Panaji, officially marking Goa's integration into the Indian Union.
Today, Goa Liberation Day is celebrated annually with great enthusiasm throughout Goa. The day is marked by flag hoisting ceremonies, cultural programs, parades, and various commemorative events. It serves as a reminder of the courage and sacrifice of freedom fighters who worked tirelessly for Goa's liberation and the decisive action taken by the Indian government to complete the process of decolonization.
