Goa Liberation Day 2023 - Integration Of Goa In Indian Union

Goa Liberation Day is celebrated on 19 December to commemorate independence from Portuguese rule following a military operation called 'Operation Vijay'.

Integration of Goa into the Indian Union:

• The Portuguese established their colonies in many parts of India in the year 1510 but till the end of the 19th century, the Portuguese colonies in India remained limited to Daman, Diu, Goa, Dadra, Nagar Haveli and Anjediva Island.
• The Goa Liberation Movement sought to end Portuguese colonial rule in Goa. The movement began with a small-scale rebellion but reached its peak between 1940 and 1960.
• This movement ended only after India acquired Goa in 1961.
• After failed diplomatic efforts, the Indian Navy, Air Force and Army launched 'Operation Vijay' in Goa and liberated the state from the Portuguese on 19 December 1961.
• After being freed from the Portuguese, it was merged with Daman and Diu and made a union territory.
• On May 30, 1987, Goa was given the status of a full state and Daman and Diu was given the status of a union territory.
• The Portuguese were the first Europeans to come to India (in the year 1498) and the last to leave this land (in the year 1961).

About Goa State:

• Location: Goa is located on the southwest coast of India, in the region known as Konkan.
• Geographically, the Deccan is separated from the highlands by the Western Ghats.
• Capital: Panaji
• Official Language: Konkani (It was added to the Eighth Schedule along with Manipuri and Nepali languages by the 71st Amendment Act of the year 1992)
• Boundary: It is surrounded by Maharashtra in the north, Karnataka in the east and south and the Arabian Sea on its western coast.
• The highest point of Goa is Sonsogor.
• In terms of area, Goa is the smallest state of India.
• Wildlife Sanctuaries and National Parks: Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary, Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary, Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary, Bhagwan Mahavir Sanctuary
• Chief Minister:  Pramod Sawant
• Lok Sabha seats:  2
• Rajya Sabha seats: 1