Goa Statehood Day

Situated on the west coast of India, Goa is the smallest state by area and a popular tourist destination, renowned for its breathtaking beaches.

It was a Portuguese colony for over 450 years until it was liberated by India in 1961 and was given the status of union territory along with Daman and Diu in 1987. However, later in 1987, Goa was granted statehood, making it the 25th state of the Indian Union.

Goa Statehood Day is celebrated annually on May 30, commemorating the day when Goa was declared a state separate from Daman and Diu in 1987.

The history of Goa dates back to 1510, when Alfonso de Albuquerque conquered the region, defeating Adil Shah of Bijapur. For the next 400 years, Goa remained under Portuguese rule. The Indian government then requested that the Portuguese cede their territories, but the Portuguese refused. In response, the Indian government launched Operation Vijay in 1961, annexing the Daman and Diu islands and Goa to the Indian mainland. This marked the end of Portuguese rule in Goa.

On May 30, 1987, the territory was split, and Goa was formed as the 25th state of the Republic of India. Panaji was designated as the capital of Goa, and Konkani was declared the official language. Since then, Goa Statehood Day has been observed annually on May 30.

Significance and Celebrations

The significance of this day lies in the fact that it marks the official integration of Goa as an official state into the Indian Union after centuries of Portuguese colonial rule. It is celebrated by various cultural events and celebrations across the state to honour Goa’s rich heritage and the sacrifices made during the struggle for liberation from Portuguese rule.