Goa Liberation Day is observed on December 19 commemorating the role of the Indian armed forces in freeing Goa from Portuguese rule. Prior to which it was under the Portuguese rule for 450 years. The state was liberated on December 19, 1961. The day is celebrated in commemoration of the Indian armed forces military action against the Portuguese. The movement to free the state from their rule started in the 19th century. November 1 is State Formation Day for Seven Indian States: Know Why and How Karnataka, Kerala, MP, Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh Formed.

The revolts to liberated Goa began in the early 1940s, and the struggle went on for 15 years. India became independent on August 15, 1947, but Goa was still reeling under the Portuguese rule. In the 1940s the Goa independence movement gained momentum, and it sought its inspiration from the Indian freedom struggle. Dr Ram Manohar Lohia made a significant contribution to help the state achieve its freedom.

The deposed governor-general of Portugal in India Manuel Antonio Vassalo e-Silva surrendered to the then Chief of Army Staff general Pran Nath Thapar. The Indian armed forces launched Operation Vijay for the liberation of Anjadiv Island and Territories of Goa, Daman and Diu from the Portuguese rule. The military operation was conducted on December 18 and 191961 to drive out the Portuguese from Goa. Indian Navy Day 2019: List of Daring Military Operations Carried Out by Indian Navy During Wars & Conflicts.

Various programmes organised across Goa to mark the Goa Liberation Day. The War Memorial at Indian Naval Ship Gomantak was constructed in memory of seven young gallant sailors and other personnel who laid down their lives on December 19, 1961, during the operation.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Dec 19, 2019 11:04 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).