Team Herald
PONDA: India’s 78th Independence Day was marked with a celebratory event at Ponda’s Kranti Maidan, where Agriculture Minister Ravi Naik paid homage to the sacrifices of the country’s freedom fighters. The event commenced with Naik offering a rich floral tribute to the Martyrs Memorial, followed by the hoisting of the National Flag and an inspection of the guard of honour presented by jawans.
In his address, Naik emphasised the importance of unity among the people, urging citizens to look beyond differences of caste and religion. He highlighted the need for solidarity, particularly in the context of protecting the Bangladeshi Hindus who, he said, are facing injustice. He underscored the significance of remembering the sacrifices made by freedom fighters like Mahatma Gandhi, whose efforts led to India’s independence from British rule on August 15, 1947.
Reflecting on the historical context, Naik mentioned how British rule had stunted India’s development and how Goans endured the hardships imposed by the Portuguese.

