Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has said the Patradevi Martyrs’ Memorial symbolises the national unity, courage and sacrifice that contributed to Goa’s liberation. Speaking at the inauguration of the memorial, Mr Singh said people from different parts of India came to Goa and sacrificed their lives for its freedom.

 

Defence Minister recalled the bravery of satyagrahis including Sahodara Devi, Karnail Singh Benipal, Madhukar Damodar Chaudhary and others who participated in the 1955 Satyagraha. He said the memorial should inspire future generations to understand the price paid for freedom and uphold national unity and integrity.

 

Mr Singh said the Patradevi Satyagraha demonstrated that Goa’s liberation was not merely a regional struggle, but an expression of national consciousness. He also recalled the role of the armed forces in Operation Vijay, which led to Goa’s liberation from Portuguese rule in 1961.

 

He urged young people visiting Goa to visit the memorial, learn about the freedom fighters and draw inspiration from their sacrifices. He said the memorial would become a pilgrimage-like site for the entire country and reminded citizens that preserving freedom is a collective responsibility.

 

The Defence Minister congratulated Chief Minister Dr Pramod Sawant and the Goa Government for establishing the memorial.

 

Dr Pramod Sawant said the memorial is a living symbol of sacrifice, reminding future generations of the courage and patriotism of Goa’s freedom fighters.