Tag: Goa History

Human Interest

Goa’s Freedom Fighters Remembered at Aguad Port & Jail Complex on June 18

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Aguada, Goa | June 18, 2025
In a moving tribute to the spirit of sacrifice and patriotism, Rohidas Dessai, President of the Goa Freedom Fighters Association, visited the historic Aguad Port & Jail Complex on June 18 to honor his former associates—freedom fighters who played a pivotal role in Goa’s liberation movement. The event was held at the Core Block, where the names of incarcerated freedom fighters are proudly displayed as a lasting testament to their courage.

Honoring a Shared Legacy

Standing solemnly before the engraved names of fellow freedom fighters, Dessai paid homage to the individuals who, like him, stood against colonial rule and helped shape the destiny of Goa. The visit highlighted not only the personal stories of sacrifice but also the enduring legacy of those who contributed to the state’s liberation from Portuguese rule in 1961.

“These walls hold our stories. They are more than just names—they are voices of courage, unity, and relentless pursuit of freedom,” Dessai remarked during the tribute.

Families Reconnect with History

The tribute was made more poignant as family members of Goa’s freedom fighters also visited the complex. For many, it was a deeply emotional experience—seeing the Aguad Interactive Museum, which brings to life the struggle and resilience of those who participated in the freedom movement.

From historic photographs to immersive exhibits, the museum serves as a vital link between past and present, educating younger generations about the price paid for independence and the values it enshrines.

“Visiting this site, where our father was once imprisoned, makes us feel proud and connected to our roots,” said one family member during the visit.

Aguad Complex as a Living Memorial

Once a colonial-era prison, the Aguad Port & Jail Complex has been transformed into a cultural heritage site and memorial, preserving the stories of those who were imprisoned for their political beliefs and actions during Goa’s long struggle for liberation. The Core Block—the heart of the tribute zone—now serves as a silent guardian of these memories.

The Goa government, in collaboration with the Department of Archives and Archaeology, continues to preserve and showcase this site as a symbol of resilience and national pride.

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Over 180 School Students Visit Aguad Port and Jail Complex, Sinquerim on Goa Revolution Day

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~ The students engaged with Goa’s rich history through the Aguad Interactive Museum and explored the historic jail cells.

Panaji, June 2025: On Goa Revolution Day, 188 school students from across the state visited the Aguad Port and Jail Complex in Sinquerim, getting a firsthand look at a slice of the state’s history. Accompanied by teachers, parents and guides, they joined locals and tourists in marking the day at the former prison that once held freedom fighters during Goa’s liberation movement.

The historic venue had offered free entry for bonafide Goan residents to visit and honour the state’s freedom fighters who were once imprisoned at Aguada prison, now a popular, restored heritage site that is home to the Aguad Interactive Museum (AIM). 

In all, 43 students accompanied by two teachers from Dr K B Hedgewar High School in Bambolim, 122 students and 10 teachers from Hedgewar Primary and High School in Assonora and 23 students, one tour guide and 10 teachers and parents from Vidya Prabodhini Primary School in Alto Porvorim, visited the Aguad Port and Jail Complex on the occasion of the historic day.

“Today, Aguad stands proudly as a diverse historical and cultural hub deeply rooted in Goan identity. It represents the unique cultural legacy of Goa and preserves the legacy of the freedom fighters who were incarcerated at Aguad, providing a memorable experience for all who visit. Students, in particular, can enrich themselves with factually accurate knowledge about Goa’s freedom struggle and learn more about the stellar participants of the movement,” says Savio Mathias, The Aguad Port and Jail Complex’s vice president, Operations and Business Development.  

The students engaged with Goa’s history through the interactive museum’s touch screens, informative displays and immersive installations. They had the opportunity to walk through the historic jail cells that once held Goa’s freedom fighters. In the Core Block of the complex, the students solemnly observed the engraved names of those freedom fighters who had been imprisoned at the jail during the state’s liberation movement, a reminder of their sacrifices.

EduConnect

Launch of New History Textbook for Class 9

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Porvorim, Goa:
Goa is not only known for its beaches, but also for its many historically significant and culturally rich heritage sites. Teachers should take students on field visits to such sites and guide them about Goa’s traditions and heritage, said Bhagirath Shetye, Chairman of the Goa Board of Secondary and Higher Secondary Education, during a workshop held for secondary-level teachers in Porvorim.

On this occasion, the new Class 9 history textbook was officially launched by Chairman Bhagirath Shetye. Present at the event were Jyoti Chiplunkar, Datta Parab, Manisha Prabhu Desai, and Bonita Rodrigues, along with other dignitaries.

Teachers who contributed to the development of the new textbook were felicitated during the ceremony. They included:
Bonita Rodrigues, Jyoti Chiplunkar, Manisha Prabhu Desai, Datta Parab, Aditya Watwe, Archana Pednekar, Sandeep Patil, Tiyaf Silveria, and Alvita D’Souza.

Guidance sessions for teachers were conducted by Datta Parab, Sandeep Patil, Aditya Watwe, Archana Pednekar, and Tiyaf Silveria.

The event was hosted by Jyoti Chiplunkar, while the vote of thanks was delivered by Manisha Prabhu Desai. Bonita Rodrigues coordinated the overall workshop.

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No Entry Fee for Goans at Aguad Port and Jail Complex on Goa Revolution Day

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On the occasion of Goa Revolution Day on June 18, the Aguad Port and Jail Complex, invites all Goans to experience the powerful legacy of Goa’s liberation movement.

Entry to the Sinquerim-based heritage complex will be free to all Goans on production of a bona fide government ID. Visitors on the day can take the special opportunity to walk through the historic corridors of the Aguad Port and Jail Complex that once bore witness to the courage and resilience of those freedom fighters who fought for the liberation of Goa. Come, explore and experience.

Date: Wednesday, June 18, 2025
Time: 10AM to 8PM
Venue: Aguad Port & Jail Complex, Sinquerim

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The Historic Opinion Poll Goa: A Defining Moment in the State’s History

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January 16, 1967, marked a pivotal day in Goa’s history, as the state held a historic referendum, popularly known as the Opinion Poll Goa. The poll was a culmination of a long-standing debate between two main parties: the Maharashtrawadi Gomantak Party (MGP), which favored merger with Maharashtra, and the United Goans Party (UGP), which advocated for maintaining Goa’s separate identity.

Background and Context

After India gained independence in 1947, Goa remained a Portuguese colony until December 19, 1961, when it was liberated by the Indian Army. Following liberation, Goa, along with Daman and Diu, was administered as a Union Territory of India. However, the question of Goa’s future status remained a topic of debate.

The Referendum

The Opinion Poll Goa was held to determine whether Goa should merge with Maharashtra or remain a separate entity. The referendum offered two options:

  1. Merger with Maharashtra
  2. Remain a Union Territory of India

The poll was conducted under the supervision of the Election Commission of India, with 81.77% of eligible voters casting their ballots.

Arguments For and Against Merger

Those in favor of merger argued that Goa was too small to administer itself and that merging with Maharashtra would bring economic benefits and cultural ties. They believed that Goa’s economy would flourish with access to Maharashtra’s larger market and resources.

On the other hand, opponents of merger believed that Goa’s unique cultural identity would be lost, and that the state would become a “backwater district of Maharashtra”. They argued that Goa’s distinct history, language, and customs would be compromised if it were to merge with Maharashtra.

The Results

The referendum results were announced on January 16, 1967. A total of 54.20% of voters opted against merger, while 43.50% voted in favor. The anti-mergerists won by a margin of 34,021 votes.

Aftermath and Impact

The Opinion Poll Goa was a significant event in the state’s history, shaping its future and identity. The results demonstrated the strong desire among Goans to maintain their separate identity and cultural heritage.

In the aftermath of the poll, Goa continued to be administered as a Union Territory of India. On May 30, 1987, Goa was granted statehood, becoming the 25th state of India.

Legacy of the Opinion Poll Goa

The Opinion Poll Goa was a defining moment in Goa’s history, showcasing the power of democratic participation and the importance of preserving cultural heritage. The poll’s outcome has had a lasting impact on Goa’s identity and development, shaping the state’s future as a distinct and vibrant entity within the Indian Union.