Part of: Goa Gk set 13

What was the name of the Indian army operation conducted to release Goa from Portuguese rule?

Category: Goa Gk

Hint: Consider the historical context of Goa's liberation from Portuguese rule.

Correct Answer: D) Operation Vijay.

Exam Relevance: UPSC, SSC, State PSC

Difficulty: Easy

Explanations:

Operation Vijay was a significant military operation conducted by the Indian Armed Forces in 1961 to liberate Goa, Daman, and Diu from Portuguese colonial rule. The operation was a part of India's broader efforts to integrate all territories under its sovereignty after gaining independence from British rule in 1947.

The historical context of Operation Vijay is rooted in the long-standing dispute over the territories of Goa, Daman, and Diu, which were under Portuguese control since the 16th century. Despite India's efforts to negotiate the transfer of these territories through diplomatic means, the Portuguese government refused to relinquish control. This led to the decision to use military force to integrate these territories into the Indian Union.

The operation was meticulously planned and executed over a period of three days, from December 17 to December 19, 1961. The Indian Armed Forces, comprising the Indian Army, Indian Navy, and Indian Air Force, launched a coordinated attack on the Portuguese forces. The operation was swift and successful, resulting in the surrender of the Portuguese forces and the liberation of Goa, Daman, and Diu.

The name "Vijay" for the operation was chosen symbolically, as it means "victory" in Hindi. This name reflected the successful outcome of the operation and the achievement of India's goal to integrate these territories into the Indian Union. The operation was a significant milestone in India's post-independence history, marking the end of colonial rule in Goa and reinforcing India's commitment to national sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Understanding the historical context and significance of Operation Vijay is crucial for comprehending the broader narrative of India's struggle for independence and the subsequent efforts to integrate all territories under its sovereignty. It is an important event in the history of Goa and India, and knowledge of this operation is often tested in various competitive examinations and history assessments.

Option Analysis:
  • Option A: Operation Polo was the codename for the Indian military operation to integrate the princely state of Hyderabad into the Indian Union in 1948. It is not related to the liberation of Goa.
  • Option B: Operation Thunder is not a historical military operation associated with the liberation of Goa. It is a distractor option.
  • Option C: While it might seem logical to name the operation after the region, Operation Goa is not the correct name. The actual operation was named Operation Vijay.
  • Option D: Operation Vijay is the correct answer. It was the codename for the Indian military operation that liberated Goa from Portuguese rule in 1961. The name Vijay means victory in Hindi, symbolizing the successful conclusion of the operation.

Mnemonic: V for Victory, V for Vijay

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