Goa today celebrated its 40th Statehood Day at the Kala Academy in Panaji. Addressing the gathering, Vice President C. P. Radhakrishnan described Goa as a model state that has successfully balanced development with the preservation of its rich culture and heritage.

Vice President C. P. Radhakrishnan said that Goa stands as an inspiring example of how identity and progress can go hand in hand. Addressing the 40th Goa Statehood Day celebrations at the Kala Academy in Panaji, he said Goa has successfully preserved its cultural roots while embracing modern development.

The Vice President described Goa as much more than a tourist destination, calling it a living civilisation shaped by cultural exchange, social harmony and intellectual openness. He praised the state’s achievements in literacy, healthcare, environmental awareness and human development.

The Vice President also commended Chief Minister Dr Pramod Sawant’s leadership in advancing infrastructure, education, healthcare, tourism and digital governance while safeguarding Goa’s unique identity.

Earlier, the Vice President inaugurated the Mario Miranda exhibition, released a commemorative postage stamp and special cover on the renowned cartoonist, distributed awards and appointment letters, and launched enhanced assistance under the Deen Dayal Swasthya Seva Yojana scheme. He said a Viksit Goa is essential for achieving the vision of Viksit Bharat by 2047.