Team Goemkarponn
Mapusa: The 79th Independence Day was celebrated with patriotic fervour in Mapusa on Friday under the leadership of Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte. The Minister unfurled the Tricolour, inspected the parade and accepted the salute presented by the Goa Police, NCC cadets and students from schools across Bardez taluka.
The celebrations featured a cultural programme highlighting Goa’s heritage, while fishermen, agriculturists, kirtankars, bhajan artists, tiatrists and sportspersons were felicitated for their contributions to society. Former Deputy Speaker Ulhas Asnodkar, the Collector, Additional Collector and Mamlatdar were also present.
In his address, Khaunte paid tribute to the nation’s freedom fighters and stressed Goa’s role in building a self-reliant India. He said Goa was evolving into a “beacon of regenerative tourism” by reviving heritage and traditions while creating opportunities for youth. “The true meaning of freedom lies in empowering communities, preserving identity and contributing to the nation’s growth,” he said, adding that the state government was committed to inclusive and transformative development in line with the Prime Minister’s vision of Viksit Bharat.
The event concluded with a pledge of collective commitment towards the progress of the state and the nation.
