Team Goemkarponn
SADA: Sada witnessed a deeply moving and historic morning on Thursday as Mormugao MLA Sankalp Amonkar inaugurated the bust of Lt Narendra Mayekar at the renovated Smarak Sthal, developed under MLA-LAD funds. The ceremony drew a large gathering of residents, family members of the martyr, serving and retired defence personnel from across Goa, and other dignitaries, turning the coastal locality into a solemn yet proud tribute ground.
The newly renovated memorial site, adorned with flowers and the Tricolour, echoed with patriotic fervour as defence units presented honours. Lt Mayekar’s family stood beside the unveiled bust, visibly emotional as tributes poured in for the brave son of Sada who laid down his life for the nation.
Addressing the gathering, Amonkar described the occasion as a proud moment not only for Sada but for the entire state. He announced that the road at Sada would be officially named after Lt Narendra Mayekar to ensure that his legacy remains etched in public memory. “This is a small step to honour a towering sacrifice. Every person who passes through this road should remember the courage of Lt Mayekar,” Amonkar said.
In a significant announcement, the MLA further stated that he would submit a formal proposal to the government seeking to declare the annual homage programme held in memory of Lt Mayekar as an official government function in the coming years. He said such recognition would institutionalise the tribute and ensure sustained participation from government authorities, defence forces and the public. The announcement was met with applause from those present.
Lt Narendra Mayekar, a resident of Sada and a posthumous Kirti Chakra awardee, was martyred on February 26, 2000, during Operation Rhino in Assam. He led his men in a direct assault on heavily armed ULFA militants who had taken shelter in a hideout. Asking his team to provide covering fire, he moved forward to engage the militants. Despite suffering grievous injuries, he continued the attack, neutralising militants before succumbing to his injuries.
Thursday’s ceremony stood as a reaffirmation that Sada has not forgotten its hero. With the bust now installed, the road set to bear his name, and efforts underway to grant official status to the annual homage, the legacy of Lt Narendra Mayekar has been given renewed and enduring recognition.
