Goa Liberation Day is observed on December 19, the day when Goa was freed from the colonial rule of Portugal in 1961 and put an end to over 450 years of continuous domination by Portugal in this region. The day is also significant in Indian history as it was the last inclusion of all the territories ruled under colonial rule into this newly independent Indian Republic. Goa, with Daman and Diu, remained under the Portuguese regime even after India had achieved independence in 1947. Portugal would not yield to India or the world community to let go of its colonies.
The struggle for the liberation of Goa picked up in the 1950s. Indian leaders now campaigned for the annexation of Goa because it had become a symbol of colonialism. India took diplomatic means for almost a century, but finally, when that also wasn’t possible, the Government of India chose to join Goa by force. This military operation, named “Operation Vijay,” was mounted on December 18, 1961. It successfully achieved the liberation of the Goan territory in nearly 36 hours, and on December 19, the Portuguese found no way to resist the Indian occupation forces. This was the end to the Portuguese rule and absorbing of Goa into India.
Goa Liberation Day reminds us of the sacrifices made by freedom fighters from Goa and the rest of India who were so instrumental in the liberation movement. It also shows India’s resolve to unite all its territories. It is a day when the flag is hoisted, cultural events take place, and the heroes who struggled for Goa’s liberation are paid their due. It is the time when Goans take pride in looking back at their great culture and the significance of sovereignty in the Indian Union. It also underlines the strength of freedom and national integration.