Will never forget contributions of brave freedom fighters of Goa: PM

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday recalled the 'monumental contributions' of the brave freedom fighters of Goa on the occasion of Goa Liberation Day.

"Delighted to be among my sisters and brothers of Goa, that too on the special occasion of Goa Liberation Day. Began my visit by paying tributes at the Martyrs' Memorial. We will never forget the monumental contributions of the brave freedom fighters of Goa," tweeted PM Modi today.

Prime Minister arrived in Goa to attend Liberation Day celebrations. Chief Minister Pramod Sawant received Prime Minister Modi at Panaji airport.

He will also attend the Sail Parade and flypast at Miramar, Panaji.

As per the Prime Minister's Office (PMO), the Prime Minister will felicitate the freedom fighters and veterans of 'Operation Vijay' at Dr Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Stadium in Goa's Taleigao.

Goa Liberation Day is celebrated on December 19 every year to mark the success of 'Operation Vijay' undertaken by the Indian Armed Forces that liberated Goa from Portuguese rule.

Prime Minister will inaugurate multiple development projects including the renovated Fort Aguada Jail Museum, Super Speciality Block at Goa Medical College, New South Goa District Hospital, Aviation Skill Development Center at Mopa Airport and the Gas-insulated Substation at Dabolim-Navelim, Margao.

He will also lay the foundation stone for the India International University of Legal Education and Research of Bar Council of India Trust at Goa.

Prime Minister will also release a Special Cover and Special Cancellation to mark the commemoration of the Indian Armed Forces freeing Goa from Portuguese rule.This special episode of history is shown on the special cover, whereas the special cancellation depicts the war memorial at Indian Naval Ship Gomantak, constructed in memory of seven young gallant sailors and other personnel who laid down their lives in "Operation Vijay".

The Prime Minister will also release 'My Stamp' depicting the Hutatma Smarak at Patradevi, which salutes the great sacrifices made by the martyrs of the Goa Liberation Movement. A 'Meghdoot Post Card' depicting a collage of pictures of different events during the Goa Liberation Struggle will also be presented to the Prime Minister.

Prime Minister will also distribute awards to the best Panchayat/Municipality, Swayampurna Mitras and beneficiaries of Swayampurna Goa Programme.