Goa Shows Identity & Progress Go Hand in Hand: VP
C.P. Radhakrishnan hails Goa’s development journey at 40th Statehood Day celebrations in Panaji
- Vice President attended Goa’s 40th Statehood Day celebrations
- Praised Goa’s progress in education, healthcare and governance
- Called Blue Economy a key pillar of India’s future growth
- Paid tribute to former Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar
GG News Bureau
Panaji, 30th May: Vice President C. P. Radhakrishnan on Saturday said Goa’s development journey demonstrates that identity and progress can coexist, praising the state for balancing heritage, modernity and economic growth.
Addressing the 40th Statehood Day celebrations in Panaji, the Vice President said Goa’s evolution since attaining statehood on May 30, 1987, reflects the aspirations, democratic spirit and unique identity of its people.
“This is a state where heritage and progress, tradition and modernity, local pride and global outlook come together,” he said while noting that it was his first official visit to Goa after assuming office.
Radhakrishnan praised the people of Goa for their commitment to education, social inclusiveness and civic responsibility. He said the state’s achievements in literacy, healthcare, environmental awareness and human development serve as examples for the nation.
Paying tribute to former Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar, he described him as a visionary leader whose simplicity, integrity and dedication left a lasting impact on Goa’s development.
The Vice President also commended the leadership of Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, saying the state has made notable progress in infrastructure, healthcare, education, tourism and digital governance while preserving its cultural identity.
Highlighting democratic values, he said political differences are natural during elections but should give way to cooperation and collective responsibility once the electoral process concludes.
Looking ahead to the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, the Vice President said Goa has a vital role to play in India’s growth story. He identified the Blue Economy as one of the defining pillars of the country’s future development and noted that Goa is emerging as a leader in this sector due to its strategic coastline, educated population and entrepreneurial culture.
He further observed that Goa’s model of embracing modernity while preserving cultural roots can serve as an example of sustainable coastal development for the rest of the country.
Encouraging young people to contribute to entrepreneurship, innovation, science, sports, arts and the Blue Economy, the Vice President said Goa’s greatest strength lies in the creativity and confidence of its youth.
During the celebrations, Radhakrishnan inaugurated an exhibition dedicated to renowned cartoonist Mario Miranda, released a commemorative postage stamp and special cover in his honour, and unveiled a coffee table book titled “Goa Engineering the Next Era”. He also presented awards to distinguished individuals and iconic Goan brands.
The event was attended by Goa Governor Pusapati Ashok Gajapathi Raju, Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, Union Minister of State Shripad Naik and other dignitaries.
