GOA ASMITAI DIS MARKS PRIDE IN STATEHOOD AND CULTURAL LEGACY

“Goa’s identity is safeguarded through GI-tagged products,” CM Dr. Pramod Sawant

Panaji: January 16, 2026

Goa Asmitai Dis was celebrated today at the Institute Menezes Braganza Hall, Panaji, reaffirming the state’s pride in its distinct identity, history, and cultural heritage. The programme highlighted the importance of Goa’s statehood and aimed to strengthen awareness among the younger generation about the significance of preserving Goa’s unique identity.

The programme was held to mark Goa Asmitai Dis, commemorating the historic 1967 Opinion Poll, when the people of Goa voted against merging with Maharashtra and chose to remain a separate state. This decision laid the foundation of Goa’s distinct identity, which continues to be celebrated as a symbol of self-respect, cultural pride, and democratic choice.

Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant said, “The 1967 Opinion Poll played a crucial role in protecting Goa’s separate identity and statehood, and it is important for the younger generation to understand the significance of Goa Asmitai Day.” He further stated, “GI-tagged products have helped safeguard Goa’s unique identity and have given our traditional products national recognition.” CM Dr. Sawant also emphasised that preserving Goa’s environment and traditional livelihoods is a shared responsibility of the government and the people.

During the programme, Dr. Sawant inaugurated stalls showcasing GI-tagged products and books and formally felicitated applicants associated with 15 GI-tagged products of Goa for their contribution towards preserving the state’s traditional heritage. The GI-tagged products include Goa Mankurad Mango, Goa Hilario Mango, Goa Mussard Mango, Goa Kaju Apple, Goa Cashew, Goa Bebinca, Feni, Sat Shiro Bhendo, Goa Korgut Rice, Goa Khaje, Myndoli Banana, Agassaim Brinjal, Taleigao Brinjal, Harmal Chilli, and Khola Chilli. As part of efforts to support traditional livelihoods, Kaushalya Mitra Cards along with an incentive amount of ₹50,000 were distributed to traditional salt pan workers and other traditional occupational practitioners.

The event was attended by Dr V. Candavelou, IAS; Chief Secretary; Shri Prasad Lolayekar, IAS, Secretary (Official Language); senior government officials; representatives of GI-tagged product groups; traditional occupational practitioners; and members of the public.

DI/NB/AXP/SM/2026/1143