Statehood Day of Goa | 31 May 2021

Why in News

On the Statehood Day of Goa (30th May), the Prime Minister greeted the people of the state.

Key Points

  • About:
    • Goa is located on the southwestern coast of India within the region known as the Konkan, and geographically separated from the Deccan highlands by the Western Ghats.
  • Capital:
    • Panji.
  • Official Language:
  • Borders:
    • It is surrounded by Maharashtra to the north and Karnataka to the east and south, with the Arabian Sea forming its western coast.
  • History:
    • As India gained independence on 15th August, 1947, it requested the Portugese to cede their territories. However, Portuguese refused.
    • In 1961, Indian Government launched Operation Vijay and annexed Daman and Diu islands and Goa with the Indian mainland.
      • Goa Liberation Day is observed on 19th December every year in India.
      • It can be noted that the Portuguese were the first Europeans to come to India (1498) and were also the last to leave this land (1961).
    • On 30th May, 1987, the territory was split and Goa was formed. Daman and Diu remained Union Territory.
  • Geography:
    • The highest point of Goa is Sonsogor.
    • Goa's seven major rivers are the Zuari, Mandovi, Terekhol, Chapora, Galgibag, Kumbarjua canal, Talpona and the Sal.
    • Most of Goa's soil cover is made up of laterites.
  • Wildlife Sanctuaries and National Parks:

Source:PIB