CM Manohar Parrikar thanked Indian Army for their bravery on the eve of #GoaLiberationDay
Panaji, December 19: Today back in the year 1961 Goa was freed from Portuguese rule due to the bravery of our Indian Army. This day is celebrated as ‘Goa Liberation Day’. Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar wished everyone saying that “On this memorable day, let's recall the valiant efforts of our freedom fighters who fought against oppression, and the remarkable role played by the Indian Army in liberating Goa from Portuguese rule.”
''I once again extend my warm wishes to the people of Goa on this auspicious day,'' the Chief Minister said.
Back in History:
Goa on India's western coast was freed from Portuguese rule on 19 December 1961, more than four centuries after it was colonised. The fight for freedom began in the 1940s as India inched closer to independence from British rule. But Goa remained a Portuguese colony until 1961, straining relations between India and Portugal as the former's support for the anti-colonial movement in Goa grew. In 1955, India even imposed an economic blockade on Goa. In 1961, the Indian army invaded the state after the Portuguese fired at Indian fishing boats, killing one fisherman. After 36 hours of air, sea and land strikes by the army, General Manuel Antonio Vassalo e Silva, governor general of Goa, signed the "instrument of surrender", handing over Goan territory to India.
