The Goa Pradesh Congress Committee celebrated the 137th birth anniversary of India’s first Prime Minister, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, at the Congress Headquarters in Panaji, paying rich floral tributes to the great visionary leader and recalling his invaluable contribution to India’s freedom struggle and nation-building.
The programme was attended by AICC Goa In-charge Manickrao Thakare, Leader of Opposition Yuri Alemao, MP Capt. Viriato Fernandes, former MP Francisco Sardinha, GPCC Working Presidents M.K. Shaikh and Sunil Kawthankar, Chairman of the Media and Communication Department Amarnath Panjikar, Goa Pradesh Youth Congress President Archit Naik and several other senior leaders, party functionaries and workers.
Addressing the gathering, Manickrao Thakare highlighted Nehru’s extraordinary contribution to India’s development, stating that Nehru was instrumental in building the nation from scratch after Independence. Having actively participated in India’s freedom struggle, Nehru laid the foundations of a strong, progressive and democratic India. His independent foreign policy gave India a distinct voice and identity on the international stage. He also strongly upheld universal adult franchise, ensuring that every eligible Indian citizen, irrespective of social or economic status, had the right to vote.
“Today, when we witness attempts to undermine and deny people’s voting rights through Vote Chori, it becomes our collective responsibility to stand united and fight to protect our democracy, electoral integrity and democratic values. The ideals that Nehru fought for must be defended with renewed determination,” Thakare said.
Leader of Opposition Yuri Alemao said that Pandit Nehru never compromised on the idea of a liberal, secular and progressive India. Describing him as an intellectually gifted leader and prolific writer, Alemao said Nehru nurtured scientific temper and laid the foundations for India’s progress in industrialisation, agriculture, space research, education and healthcare.
“Nehru was among the tallest global leaders of his time. His vision and leadership gave direction to modern India. His commitment to scientific thinking, educational advancement and inclusive development continues to remain relevant even today,” Alemao stated.
MP Capt. Viriato Fernandes recalled Nehru’s visionary role in laying the foundations of India’s nuclear programme and space research, besides introducing planned economic development through the Five-Year Plans. He also highlighted Nehru’s contribution towards strengthening national integration and building a united India despite its immense diversity.
Former MP Francisco Sardinha described Nehru as a leader with exceptional vision who understood the importance of strengthening India’s economic foundations. He said Nehru gave significant importance to agriculture, irrigation projects and industrialisation, recognising that these sectors were essential for the country’s self-reliance and long-term development.
GPCC Working President M.K. Shaikh highlighted Nehru’s transformative contribution to education, scientific advancement and healthcare. He recalled the establishment of premier educational institutions such as the IITs, the development of AIIMS as a centre of excellence in medical education and healthcare, and the construction of major multipurpose river valley projects such as Bhakra Nangal and Hirakud dams, which strengthened irrigation and power generation.
The speakers collectively emphasised that Nehru’s vision of a democratic, scientific, inclusive and self-reliant India remains a guiding force for the nation. They stressed that his legacy must be remembered not merely through tributes but by upholding the principles of equality, secularism, democratic institutions and social justice.
The programme was compered by GPCC Media and Communication Department Chairman Amarnath Panjikar, while Rajiv Gandhi Panchayati Raj Sangathan Chairman Pravin Blaggan proposed the vote of thanks.
The celebration concluded with a renewed commitment by Congress leaders and workers to uphold Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru’s ideals and strengthen the democratic foundations of the country.
