1961 Indian annexation of Goa

The 1961 Indian annexation of Goa refers to the military operation and subsequent incorporation of the Portuguese colony of Goa into the Republic of India. Following Portugal's refusal to negotiate the handover of its overseas territories, including Goa, the Indian government launched Operation Vijay on December 18, 1961. The operation involved a swift military campaign aimed at liberating Goa, Daman, and Diu from Portuguese colonial rule. After two days of conflict, Indian forces successfully took control of Goa, leading to the formal surrender of Portuguese authorities. This event marked the end of nearly 451 years of Portuguese presence in the region, and Goa was officially integrated into India as a state on May 30, 1987. The annexation remains a significant chapter in India's post-independence history, symbolizing the end of colonialism in the subcontinent.