PRESIDENT OF INDIA GRACES THE GOA'S LIBERATION DAY CELEBRATIONS IN PANAJI

Rashtrapati Bhavan : 19.12.2020

The Goan struggle for liberation was not only for civil liberties; it was also an expression of the long-suppressed longings to be one with India again. This was visible in the use of the Tricolour. The adoption of the Gandhian path for political struggle was also reflective of this emotional unity, said the President of India, Shri Ram Nath Kovind. He was speaking on the occasion of commencement of the 60th Goa’s Liberation Day celebrations today (December 19, 2020) in Panaji, Goa.

Addressing the gathering, the President said that their ancestors did not let the torch of freedom be extinguished. Many freedom fighters sacrificed their lives to keep it burning. On the occasion, he remembered them and paid his respects for their sacrifices.

The President said that when Goa was liberated, its physical infrastructure and industry were underdeveloped. Today, as Goa enters in its 60th year of liberation, it is proud to see that this state ranks first in terms of per capita income. The credit goes to the hardworking people, public representatives, government servants and industry of Goa. The President said that as the entire nation is moving forward to strengthen the local economy, with the call of 'Atmanirbhar Bharat’, the Government of Goa’s ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat, Swayampurna Goa’ is a commendable initiative.

The President said that the share of the industrial sector in Goa’s GDP is among the highest in India. Despite its small size, the state has attracted investment from large business enterprises. Goa is known for the high quality of its pharmaceutical products and its pharma companies played an important role in the fight with the Covid-19 in India and abroad.

Praising the culture of Goa, the President said that it is a matter of pride for Goa that its citizens have adopted the Common Civil Code. By doing so, the cultural diversity in Goa has been encouraged. People of Goa have maintained communal harmony along with strengthening the democratic system and good governance. This unique model with active public participation is a classic example of the progressive thinking of the people of Goa.