Goa's Brave Legacy: From Susegad to Soldier

 Goa's Brave Legacy: From Susegad to Soldier 

 Goa's Contribution to India's Defence

By John Aguiar 

 When the word "Goan" is mentioned, the image that often comes to mind is that of a guitar in hand, music in the air, vibrant village feasts, football, beaches, and the relaxed spirit of susegad. It is also commonly believed that Goans prefer the comforts of home and are reluctant to leave their beloved land. Yet history tells a very different story.

 Whenever the nation has called, Goans have willingly exchanged the guitar for the rifle, the stage for the battlefield, and the comfort of home for the harsh frontiers of the country. From the icy heights of Siachen to the scorching deserts of Rajasthan, from the skies above to the depths of the oceans, Goans have served India with extraordinary courage, professionalism, and sacrifice. As India commemorates the 27th anniversary of Operation Vijay, it is fitting to remember the remarkable contribution of Goa to the Indian Armed Forces. Leadership at the Highest Level Though India's smallest state, Goa has produced military leaders of exceptional stature. General Sunith Francis Rodrigues, a proud son of Curtorim, served as the Chief of Army Staff (1990–1993), providing visionary leadership during a critical period in India's military history before later serving as the Governor of Punjab. The Indian Air Force was led by Air Chief Marshal Hrishikesh Moolgavkar, one of India's finest aviators, who flew over sixty different aircraft and served as Chief of Air Staff (1976–1978). The seas too witnessed Goan leadership through Vice Admiral John Colin De Silva, who served as Vice Chief of Naval Staff and later as Director General of the Indian Coast Guard. Courage Beyond Imagination Few stories in military history equal that of Major General Ian Cardozo. Seriously wounded during the 1971 Indo-Pak War, he displayed unimaginable courage by amputating his own injured leg with a khukri to save his life. Refusing to let disability define him, he became the first differently-abled officer to command an Infantry Battalion in the Indian Army, inspiring generations of soldiers. His life remains a shining example of the fighting spirit that Goa has given the nation. Strategic Leadership Goans have excelled not only in combat but also in strategic military leadership. 

Among them are: Air Marshal Sandesh Wagle, who served as Deputy to the Chief of Defence Staff. Air Vice Marshal Sunil Nandodkar, who has contributed significantly to the modernization of the Indian Air Force. Major General Christopher Fernandes. Brigadier Anil Pereira, Sena Medal, recognised for distinguished service and counter-insurgency operations. A Tradition of Service Since Goa's liberation in 1961, increasing numbers of young Goans have joined the National Defence Academy and other military academies. For many Goan families, especially those with long military traditions, wearing the uniform is not merely a profession—it is a legacy passed down through generations. Among those who have brought honour to Goa are: Lt. Gen. Francis Tiburtius "Dick" Dias, Vir Chakra. Lt. Gen. Sumer Ivan D'Cunha, PVSM, Director General Army Air Defence. Lt. Gen. Michael Jude Fernandes, PVSM, AVSM, SM, Commandant of the Officers Training Academy. Colonel Jesus Benino Furtado, whose journey from NCC cadet to Commanding Officer is an inspiration to countless youth. Gallantry Across the Services Goa has produced decorated soldiers, sailors and air warriors whose courage has earned national recognition. Among them are: Lt. Gen. W.A.G. Pinto, remembered as the "Victor of Basantar." 2nd Lt. Jayendra Jaising Rane, Vir Chakra (Posthumous). Lt. Cdr. J.P.A. Noronha, Maha Vir Chakra. Colonel Ivan Joseph Crasto, Kirti Chakra, honoured for the daring Timber Trail rescue. Wing Commander Clarence D'Lima, Vayu Sena Medal. Lt. Narendra Mayekar, Kirti Chakra. Colonel Amit Anand Parab, Sena Medal (Gallantry). Major Cliff Franco D'Souza, recognised for exceptional courage during counter-insurgency operations in Kashmir. Service Beyond the Battlefield Goans have also distinguished themselves in military medicine. Doctors such as the late Captain Dr. Avadhut Prabhudessai, Group Captain Dr. Jeevash Wagle, Major Dr. Padmini Prabhudessai and Lt. Col. Dr. Vinod Salkar have served soldiers in some of India's most difficult operational areas. Similarly, Army Dental Corps officers including Lt. Col. Dr. Parag Prabhudessai, Lt. Col. Dr. Nitin Raikar and Lt. Col. Dr. Pravinkumar Shirodkar have rendered outstanding service to the Armed Forces.

 Their dedication reminds us that military service extends far beyond the battlefield. The New Generation The tradition continues through a new generation of Goan officers. Among them are Kargil veteran and Member of Parliament Captain Viriato Fernandes, Captain Ashutosh Pednekar, Captain Dr. Tejas Kolvekar and numerous young officers serving in the Army, Navy and Air Force. Captain Dr. Tejas Nitin Kolvekar's selection to the prestigious Remount Veterinary Corps reflects the growing presence of Goans in specialised branches of the Armed Forces. Goan officers continue to serve with distinction in Army Aviation, Artillery, Engineers, Signals, Air Defence, Medical Services and many other specialised arms. 

Goa is proud of Wing Commander Maria Ismenia Sancha Pereira.for her action during operation Sindoor.

Wg Cdr Uvena Fernandes  is a former International football player and was a FIFA Assistant Referee from 2014 to 2024. She is  the first and the only lady cadet to be appointed as Academy Cadet Captain in IAF academy.

She has been awarded for her achievements in football by Asian Football Confederation (AFC), All India Football Federation, Goa State and also felicitated by Delhi Commission for women for empowering women. She has also received CAS commendation in the year 2021.  Capt Dean Xavier mendonce, Capt Dr Dolores, Late Capt. Dr Avdut Prabhudesai,  Lt Cdr Gaurish Sawant, lt. commander Chrishtoper Fernandes, Lt Commander Leo Dias. In music , we have Commander vijay de Souza making Goans proud.

Kargil: 

A Legacy That Inspires Operation Vijay was a defining chapter in India's military history. The victory achieved on the icy heights of Kargil was made possible by the courage, determination and sacrifice of countless soldiers. Goans proudly stood among those brave men who defended every inch of Indian territory. Their service reminds us that patriotism is not measured by the size of a state but by the depth of commitment of its people. Nation First Goa may be famous for its beaches, music and hospitality, but its greatest contribution to India lies in the courage of its sons and daughters in uniform. The same Goan who celebrates village feasts with music and dance stands like an immovable rock when entrusted with defending the nation. Behind every smiling face lies an unwavering commitment to duty, honour and sacrifice. 

On the 27th anniversary of Operation Vijay, we salute every Goan who has served—and continues to serve—in the Indian Armed Forces. Their stories remind us that while Goa is India's smallest state geographically, its contribution to the nation's defence is truly monumental. There are also names such as Lt. Col. Milind Prabhu,Commodore Sanjay De Cunha of the Indian Navy; Colonel Dhondiraj Samant and Colonel Balkrishna Shirodkar, Lt Col. Austin Colaco, Lt. Col. Umesh Bhatikar  respected senior Army officers;  

The proud military tradition of Goa continues through a new generation of officers who are serving the nation with distinction across the Army, Navy and Air Force. Among them are Lt. Col. Prasad Pascal D'Silva, Lt. Col. Ramchandra Talwadkar, and Lt. Col. Shriman Pednekar, Wing Commander Fernando da Costa who have served with dedication in various operational and leadership appointments.

The Indian Air Force too has seen outstanding representation from Goa through officers such as Wing Commander Neha Marathe, Wing Commander Rashmi Prabhu, Wing Commander Prerna Desai, Wing Commander Rahul Verekar, each contributing to the operational excellence of the Air Force in diverse roles.

Adding to this proud legacy is Lieutenant Dr. Ishana Barreto, one of Goa's newest commissioned officers in the Army Medical Corps. 

Her commissioning reflects the continued enthusiasm of Goan youth to serve the nation and reinforces Goa's long-standing contribution to the Armed Forces. Along with officers such as Captain Dr. Tejas Nitin Kolvekar, who serves in the Remount Veterinary Corps, the new generation is carrying forward Goa's proud tradition of military service with professionalism, courage and patriotism. 

Jai Hind.