Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh inaugurates Hutatma Smruti Smarak at Patradevi in Goa
“The Smarak will keep alive the sacrifice of those who fought for Goa’s liberation,” says CM Dr. Pramod Sawant
Panaji, August 26, 2026: Union Defence Minister Shri Rajnath Singh today inaugurated the Hutatma Smruti Smarak at Patradevi in Goa, paying tribute to the martyrs who sacrificed their lives for the liberation of Goa. The memorial at the Goa-Maharashtra border stands as a reminder of the courage, patriotism and unity that marked the struggle against Portuguese rule.
The inauguration was held with a series of ceremonial tributes to the martyrs. Shri Rajnath Singh unveiled the ceremonial plaque, planted a sapling and laid a wreath at the Hutatma Smruti Smarak. A parade paid compliments to the memorial, followed by the Police Band playing the Last Post. The Union Defence Minister and other dignitaries also walked through the Smarak, followed by the screening of a short film on the Liberation Movement. The commemorative book Martyrs of Goa, authored by Balaji Shenoy, was also unveiled at the hands of Shri Rajnath Singh.
Speaking on the occasion, Shri Rajnath Singh congratulated Chief Minister Dr Pramod Sawant and the Government of Goa for creating the memorial. Recalling the sacrifices made by people who came from different parts of India to participate in the struggle, he said the Patradevi Smarak represents the final chapter of India’s freedom struggle. He said those who shed their blood for Goa’s liberation deserve the highest respect and described the memorial as a symbol of India’s unity. He also urged people visiting Goa to visit the Smarak, pay homage to the martyrs and draw inspiration from their sacrifice.
The spirit of that sacrifice was also reflected in the address of Chief Minister Dr Pramod Sawant, who welcomed Shri Rajnath Singh and described the occasion as a special day for Goa. Paying homage to the 77 martyrs, he recalled that more than 2,000 satyagrahis had come to Patradevi in the effort to free Goa from Portuguese rule. He said the Smarak would ensure that their sacrifice remains part of the memory of future generations. Recalling Karnal Venipal Singh, Balarai Mapari, Deepaji Rane and Dada Rane, he also spoke about the Cuncolim Revolt and the Pinto Revolt, highlighting the long history of resistance behind Goa’s liberation.
CM Dr. Sawant further highlighted the State Government’s efforts to honour and support the families of those who fought for Goa’s freedom. He said the Government had provided a ₹10 lakh grant to the family of each martyr and had provided government employment to the children of freedom fighters. He also recalled meeting the family of Karnal Venipal Singh in Haryana. Referring to December 19, he said Goa’s Liberation Day remains an important reminder of the struggle and sacrifices behind the State’s freedom. He called upon the youth to draw inspiration from the martyrs and contribute towards the development of Goa and the vision of Viksit Bharat.
The inauguration brought together these tributes and memories at the very place associated with the Liberation Movement. The ceremonial proceedings, including the wreath-laying, Guard of Honour, parade and Last Post, marked a solemn remembrance of those who gave their lives for Goa. The Hutatma Smruti Smarak will now provide a dedicated place for people to remember their contribution and for younger generations to understand the sacrifices behind Goa’s liberation.
Present on the occasion were Union Minister of State for Power; Shripad Y. Naik, Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha); Sadanand Shet Tanavade, IAS, Chief Secretary, Government of Goa;Dr V. Candavelou, MLA, Pernem; Pravin Arlekar, MLA, Mandrem; Jit Arolkar, and other dignitaries.
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