Navy veteran visits Anjadip Island to mark Goa liberation

Mangaluru: Kansraj Sharma, a retired Indian Navy veteran, visited Anjadip Island at Naval Base Karwar on July 19.

This visit held special significance as it marked the very place where Sharma and 75 other gallant Indian Navy personnel fearlessly fought in the historic Operation Chutney, freeing Anjadip Island from Portuguese control on December 18, 1961 during Liberation of Goa.

Currently leading a tranquil life in Vasco in Goa, Hon Sub Lieutenant Kansraj Sharma's visit to Anjadip Island served as a tribute to the remarkable valor and sacrifices made during the pivotal operation. This was his first visit to the island after 1961.

Operation Chutney, etched in the annals of bravery, witnessed seven Navy personnel making the supreme sacrifice, while 19 others were wounded in action.

Interacting with Rear Admiral K M Ramakrishnan, Flag Officer Commanding Karnataka Naval Area, as well as officers and personnel of Naval Base Karwar, Sharma shared riveting anecdotes and experiences of the historic battle on Anjadip Island.

Anjadip Island, situated about 8 km southwest of Karwar has a historical legacy dating back to 150 AD, making it a prominent maritime sanctuary for both warships and merchant vessels over centuries. It was part of the kingdom of various native rulers.

The island remained under Portuguese occupation from 1498 AD until its liberation in 1961, with a brief period of British occupancy from 1662 to 1665. The island was used for centuries as a watering station for Portuguese sailing ships.