Question

Who ruled Goa before it became an independent state of the Indian Union?

• A. Britain
• B. France
• C. Portugal
• D. Spain

Hint:

Remember: Goa was liberated from Portuguese rule in 1961 through Operation Vijay and became a state of India in 1987.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Historical background of Goa
- Goa was under Portuguese colonial rule for more than 450 years, starting from 1510.
- The Portuguese established Goa as their stronghold in India, making it the capital of their Eastern empire.
Step 2: End of colonial rule
- Even after India gained independence in 1947, Portugal refused to give up Goa.
- In December 1961, the Indian Armed Forces launched Operation Vijay to liberate Goa.
- As a result, Goa was freed from Portuguese control and integrated into the Indian Union.
Step 3: Analyzing the options
- (A) Britain: Incorrect, Britain ruled most of India but not Goa.
- (B) France: Incorrect, France controlled small territories like Puducherry, not Goa.
- (C) Portugal: Correct, Goa was a Portuguese colony until 1961.
- (D) Spain: Incorrect, Spain had no colonial presence in India.
Step 4: Conclusion
Thus, before becoming part of India, Goa was ruled by Portugal.
\[ \boxed{\text{Correct Answer: (C) Portugal}} \]