Statehood Day of Goa | 01 Jun 2022
Why in News?
On the Statehood Day of Goa (30th May), the Prime Minister greeted the people of the state.
What are the Key Highlights about Goa?
- 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 15th 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 19th 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 30th 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