Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant marked the 64th anniversary of Goa's liberation with a powerful call to action, outlining five crucial pledges for the state's citizens. The event, held at the Goa University ground in Taleigao, saw the CM unfurl the national flag and inspect a ceremonial parade.
A Call to Move Beyond a Colonial Mindset
In his address, Chief Minister Sawant emphasized the need for Goans to shed what he described as a "slavery mindset" and instead take immense pride in their rich cultural heritage. He stressed that protecting Goa's unique identity and maintaining social unity are foundational to its progress. The core of his message revolved around the collective responsibility of residents in shaping the state's future.
The Five Pledges for a Progressive Goa
Sawant detailed five key duties for every Goan, central to which is the commitment to keep Goa clean, green, and safe. He explicitly linked this to Goa's status as a premier tourist destination, noting that while local authorities work on infrastructure, the onus also lies with citizens and visitors to preserve the state's beauty. The other pledges collectively aim at fostering a spirit of development, unity, and active participation in the state's growth journey.
Celebrating Achievements, Inspiring Future Action
The Chief Minister took stock of Goa's remarkable achievements since its liberation in 1961. He proudly announced that Goa boasts a 100% literacy rate, complete coverage under the Har Ghar Jal scheme for tap water, and universal access to electricity and roads. "We have the highest per capita income among other states and quality of life," Sawant stated, underscoring the strong foundation upon which to build.
He also paid tribute to the freedom fighters who struggled for Goa's liberation, echoing sentiments shared by Union Home Minister Amit Shah. Shah, in his message, recalled how Indians once needed permission to visit Goa before 1961 and saluted sacrifices of figures like Prabhakar Vaidya and Nanaji Deshmukh.
During the celebrations, CM Sawant presented Chief Minister’s Medals to distinguished police personnel for their service. The event was also graced by wishes from Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Shah.
Concluding his address, Sawant called upon all citizens, especially the younger generation, to draw inspiration from Goa's history. He urged a united effort to translate the five pledges into reality, ensuring Goa transforms into a fully developed state with a brighter future for all its residents.
