Libia Lobo Sardesai, 102, Goa’s first female lawyer and liberation hero, was awarded Padma Shri for her contributions to India’s freedom and tourism.
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The government has recognized Libia Lobo Sardesai, a 102-year-old freedom fighter from Goa, with the prestigious Padma Shri award for her exceptional contributions to India’s freedom movement and shaping Goa’s tourism sector.
Sardesai’s name was among the 113 Padma Shri recipients announced on Saturday by the Narendra Modi government, celebrating unsung heroes from various fields.
A Legacy of Courage and Service
Born during India’s struggle for independence, Libia Lobo Sardesai played a pivotal role in Goa’s liberation from Portuguese rule.
In 1955, she co-founded the underground radio station Voz da Liberdade (Voice of Freedom) with her husband, Vaman Sardesai. The station broadcast anti-colonial messages from secret locations in the jungles.
Sardesai was a freedom fighter and broke societal barriers by becoming Goa’s first female lawyer.
She later served as the state’s first tourism director, shaping Goa into a globally recognized travel destination. Her contributions laid the foundation for the state’s thriving tourism industry.
Recognizing Unsung Heroes
Sardesai’s Padma Shri award highlights her lifelong commitment to freedom, justice, and progress.
Her achievements inspire generations, from aiding India’s independence to promoting Goa’s cultural and economic growth.
This honor reflects the nation’s gratitude for Sardesai’s extraordinary legacy and reinforces the importance of recognizing individuals whose quiet contributions have profoundly impacted India’s history and development.