Who is the first Goan to receive Padma Shri award

The correct answer is: A. Balkrishna Bhagwant Borkar.

Balkrishna Bhagwant Borkar (1886–1968) was a Goan freedom fighter, social worker, and writer. He was the first Goan to receive the Padma Shri award, India’s fourth-highest civilian award, in 1954.

Borkar was born in the village of Sanquelim in Goa, then a Portuguese colony. He started his career as a teacher, but soon became involved in the freedom struggle. He was arrested and imprisoned several times by the Portuguese authorities.

After Goa’s liberation in 1961, Borkar became a member of the Goa Legislative Assembly. He also served as the chairman of the Goa State Planning Board.

Borkar was a prolific writer and wrote several books on Goan history, culture, and politics. He was also a poet and playwright.

Borkar was a towering figure in Goan history and culture. He was a pioneer in the freedom struggle and a leading light in the post-liberation era. He was a man of great integrity and courage, and his legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.

The other options are incorrect because:

• Suresh Gundu Amonkar (1922–2008) was a Goan musician and composer. He was awarded the Padma Shri in 1974.
• Hassan Nasiem Siddiquie (1928–2014) was a Goan politician and social worker. He was awarded the Padma Shri in 1992.
• Manuel Santana Aguiar (1933–2015) was a Goan politician and social worker. He was awarded the Padma Shri in 2007.