GOVERNOR GREETS PEOPLE OF GOA ON LIBERATION DAY
Panaji: December 18, 2025
The Governor, Shri Pusapati Ashok Gajapathi Raju extended his warm greetings and best wishes to the people of Goa, on the occasion of Goa’s Liberation Day.
In his message, the Governor said “Today, on this historic occasion of Goa Liberation Day, I am pleased to declare that Raj Bhavan, Goa, will be known as Lok Bhavan, Goa. This transition marks a deliberate and thoughtful step away from colonial-era terminology and affirms our commitment to a nomenclature rooted in the values of our democratic republic. “Lok Bhavan,” means People’s House, stands as a symbol of transparency, inclusiveness, and our unwavering dedication to serving the citizens of Goa. Lok Bhavan represents a deep commitment to serving the people an institution where every citizen can feel a sense of belonging. It is not just a seat of administrative authority, but a place that holds the hopes, expectations, and trust of every Goan. Lok Bhavan will genuinely work for the people, with the people, and in service of the people.”
The Governor further said, “19 December 1961 is the most significant day in Goan history, marking the liberation of Goa from Portuguese rule and its integration into the Indian Union. It is a day on which we solemnly remember and honour the innumerable sacrifices made during our long and arduous freedom struggle. This historic occasion highlights the importance of unity, courage, and resilience in the pursuit of independence. It also stands as a powerful reminder of Goa’s rich heritage and its remarkable journey towards becoming the vibrant and progressive State.”
The Governor added, “As we all know that for more than 450 years, Goa lived under colonial domination. During this long and difficult period, generations of Goans witnessed profound cultural, social, and political challenges. Though the land was beautiful, Goan people lived without the autonomy and dignity that are the birthright of every human being. Yet, beneath this prolonged period of suppression, the desire for self-determination continued to grow quietly in some hearts and also courageously in others.”
“We remember with deep respect the early voices of resistance, the countless unnamed heroes who dared to stand firm even in the shadow of oppression. Their quiet sacrifices and unwavering resolve sowed the first seeds of liberty – seeds that fostered a hope strong enough to grow, deepen, and ultimately blossom into the freedom we celebrate today,” the Governor said.
The turning point arrived in December 1961, with the historic “Operation Vijay”, when all diplomatic avenues had been exhausted and the demand for liberation had become the voice of the nation. The Indian Armed Forces our brave Army, Navy, and Air Force initiated a swift and decisive operation to free Goa, Daman, and Diu from Colonial Rule. Operation Vijay was not merely a military action. It was a declaration that the people of Goa deserved the same independence that the rest of India had achieved in 1947. The operation lasted only for 36 hours, but the impact of those hours reshaped the destiny of this land forever. The sight of the Indian Tricolour rising over Panaji marked not just the end of colonial rule but the dawn of a new era, an era in which Goans could reclaim their identity, their culture, and their future as an integral part of a vibrant and sovereign India,” the Governor added.
The Governor further said, “Goa Liberation Day is not only a remembrance of our past. It is a celebration of our progress. Over the decades, Goa has grown into a model of harmony, education, cultural richness, and sustainable development.” “This year, Goa has been marked by remarkable achievements that reflect the aspirations of our people. This year, Goa proudly achieved the milestone of 100% literacy, becoming one of the few fully literate States in the country. This is a landmark of our journey of empowerment. It represents not merely the ability to read and write, but the unlocking of human potential, dignity, and opportunity for every Goan,” the Governor said.
“Tourism continues to be one of Goa’s pillars of growth. In 2025, the State recorded a significant rise in both domestic and international tourist arrivals. More importantly, we are transforming tourism into a sustainable and inclusive model. The “Goa Beyond Beaches” initiative is promoting heritage tourism, hinterland experiences, eco-tourism, village tourism, and wellness circuits. Projects such as the Porvorim Town Square, cultural spaces, and beautification of natural sites reflect Goa’s shift towards a more people-centric and environmentally conscious tourism ecosystem,” the Governor added.
The Governor further said, “This year, Goa took a historic step by unveiling the Clean Energy Roadmap 2050, aimed at creating a green, energy-efficient, and climate-resilient future. The roadmap focuses on renewable energy adoption, solar rooftops across the state, energy-positive villages, green cooking programmes, and solarisation of healthcare facilities. These steps reaffirm our commitment to protect Goa’s unique environment, our rivers, hills, forests, and coastline while moving forward on a path of development.”
“In the recent years, Goa has also made remarkable strides in sports development. Young Goan athletes have excelled in football, swimming, athletics, martial arts, and several other disciplines, bringing medals and recognition that make the State proud. Their achievements stand as a shining testament to the vibrant and ever-growing sporting spirit of Goa. As we commemorate this day, let us bow our heads in honour of every brave soul known and unknown who contributed to Goa’s freedom. Let us salute the courage of our soldiers who executed Operation Vijay with precision and honour. And most importantly, let us reaffirm our dedication to the ideals of justice, unity, and progress that define our nation,” the Governor said.
“On this momentous day, as we honour the memory of all those who fought and sacrificed for our freedom, I urge the people of Goa to rededicate themselves to creating a prosperous, vibrant and resilient future for our State and the nation,” the Governor concluded.
DIP/NB/AXP/CR/SM/2025/1045