New Delhi, May 30 (IANS) Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge on Saturday extended warm wishes to Goans on Statehood Day and wished the state continued peace, prosperity, and a bright future ahead as he remembered former Prime Minister late Rajiv Gandhi’s contribution in fulfilling Goa’s statehood dream.

Mallikarjun Kharge took to social media ‘X’ and said, “Warm wishes to the people of Goa on Statehood Day. Blessed with unmatched natural beauty and a vibrant spirit, Goa remains a shining symbol of culture, harmony and progress. On this historic day in 1987, under the leadership of former Prime Minister Shri Rajiv Gandhi, Goa proudly attained statehood in the Republic of India. Wishing Goa continued peace, prosperity and a bright future ahead.”

Congress also took to its social media ‘X’ and said, “On Goa Statehood Day, we celebrate the rich culture and democratic legacy of Goa. The Congress family salutes the people of Goa and reaffirms its commitment to protecting harmony, constitutional values and the identity that makes Goa truly unique.”

Goa Congress also extended greetings to the people of Goa and said, “Greetings to all Goans on Goa Statehood Day. On this historic day in 1987, under the leadership of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi, Goa attained statehood and became a proud state of the Republic of India. Let us celebrate Goa’s unique identity, rich heritage and continued progress.”

As Goa celebrates its Statehood Day, the state stands at a critical juncture of reflection and foresight. The journey from a newly liberated Union Territory in 1961 to India’s 25th state in 1987 was fuelled by a fierce desire to preserve a unique socio-cultural identity. Today, almost four decades into statehood, Goa’s story is a compelling study of rapid economic ascent shadowed by deep ecological and demographic anxieties.

On the development front, Goa has many pluses. It boasts the highest per capita income in the country, alongside accessible healthcare infrastructure and a high literacy rate. Goa is also a holiday destination and a party hub.

Recent years have seen massive improvements in trade and connectivity, including the Atal Setu, the new iconic Zuari Bridge, the Manohar International Airport at Mopa, the elevated link to the airport, and now the ongoing elevated highway in Porvorim, and much more.

–IANS

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