Statehood Day of Goa

• 31 May 2021

Why in News

On the Statehood Day of Goa (30^th 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:
  
  • Konkani which is one of the 22 languages from the Eight Schedule.
• 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 15^th 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 19^th 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 30^th 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:
  
  • Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary
  • Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary
  • Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary
  • Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary
  • Bhagwan Mahaveer Sanctuary
  • Mollem National Park

Source:PIB