Emphasising that the martyrdom of 16 Chieftains who led the historic Cuncolim Revolt in 1583, should inspire every youth to contribute towards national progress and growth, Social Welfare Minister Subhash Phal Dessai on Tuesday announced that the government plans to incorporate an episode dedicated to the Cuncolim Chieftains Revolt in its proposed animation film based on Goa’s freedom struggle.
He was speaking at the Commemoration day of Chieftains Uprising organised by the South Goa Collectorate at the Chieftains Memorial in Cuncolim.
“Chieftains of Cuncolim fought against the atrocities committed by the colonial rule which reflects the bravery imbibed in our culture,” he said.
The minister informed attendees that the government is committed to preserving and conserving historical documents and land records of Goa. He revealed that digitalisation of old land documents is currently underway, stating that “with this technology manipulation of land records and land scams could be curbed in the State.”
Leader of Opposition Yuri Alemao informed that the government has plans to refurbish the Chieftains Memorial at Cuncolim, with statues of the 16 Chieftains to be placed at the memorial by next year.
President of Freedom Fighters Association Rohidas Dessai expressed satisfaction that the government had incorporated the historic Cuncolim Revolt in academic textbooks. He appealed to people to “get inspired from sacrifices made by the Cuncolim Chieftains and maintain social harmony.”
Several individuals were recognised for their contributions to society. The Cuncolim Shree award was presented to Sandeep Dessai and Diago Coutinho, while footballer Kenon Almeida received the Cuncolim Jyoti award and Mohan Naik was honoured with the Cuncolim Mitra Award for their extraordinary contribution towards society.