Indian PM Modi leads Goa's Liberation Day celebrations

To mark 60 years of Goa's liberation, Diamond Jubilee celebrations were held in Panaji, informed the Ministry of Defence.

As per the ministry, the state of Goa celebrates December 19 every year as its Liberation Day. To commemorate the occasion, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid a wreath at the martyr's memorial, Azad Maidan.

A 100 men tri-service Guard of Honour was presented during the ceremony and buglers played 'The Last Post'.

PM Modi also witnessed a Parade of Sails by boats of the Indian Navy, Coast Guard, and civil agencies; and a flypast by aircraft of the Indian Navy, from the Miramar beach.

The Diamond Jubilee events were coordinated by the Indian Navy in the presence of Vice Admiral Ajendra Bahadur Singh, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Western Naval Command, and Rear Admiral Philipose G Pynumootil, Flag Officer Commanding Goa Area.

On occasion, the Indian Navy's second indigenous stealth destroyer of the P15B class, Mormugao, which was planned to be commissioned in mid-2022, proceeded on her maiden sea sortie on December 19, said the Ministry of Defence.

"Dedicating the ship's name to the maritime state of Goa will not just enhance the bonding between the Indian Navy and the people of Goa, but also link the ship's identity permanently to the crucial role the Navy played in nation-building," the ministry said.

According to the Ministry of Defence, Mormugao is being built at Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd (MDSL) as part of Project 15B destroyers.

The ship incorporates several niche indigenous technologies and is a shining example of 'Atmanirbhar Bharat'. She has provided thrust and impetus to the 'Make in India' initiative.

(ANI)