Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu

Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu is a Union Territory (UT) of India located on the western coast, formed through the merger of two former Union Territories on 26 January 2020. This coastal territory is known for its colonial Portuguese heritage, serene beaches, tribal culture, and industrial development. Despite its small size, it holds considerable cultural and economic importance within India’s western region.

Geographical Overview

The Union Territory comprises four separate geographical entities — Dadra, Nagar Haveli, Daman, and Diu.

• Dadra and Nagar Haveli are inland territories situated between Gujarat and Maharashtra.
• Daman lies on the Gujarat coast, while Diu is an island off the Kathiawar Peninsula in the Arabian Sea.

The total area of the territory is approximately 603 square kilometres, making it one of India’s smallest administrative divisions. The capital functions are shared between Daman and Silvassa, with Daman serving as the administrative centre and Silvassa as the industrial hub. The region experiences a tropical monsoon climate, marked by hot summers, heavy monsoon rains, and mild winters.

Historical Background

The region’s history is deeply tied to Portuguese colonial rule. The Portuguese occupied Daman in 1559, Diu in 1535, and later annexed Dadra and Nagar Haveli in 1779. For nearly four centuries, the Portuguese maintained control over these territories, using them as key trading posts in the Arabian Sea.
Following Indian independence in 1947, nationalist movements began to demand liberation from colonial control. Dadra and Nagar Haveli were liberated in 1954 through a local uprising led by Indian freedom fighters, while Daman and Diu remained under Portuguese authority until December 1961, when India launched Operation Vijay, integrating them into the Indian Union.
Initially, Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu were governed as separate Union Territories. In 2019, the Government of India passed a bill to merge them for administrative efficiency, effective from Republic Day 2020.

Administration and Governance

The Union Territory is administered by a Lieutenant Governor, appointed by the President of India. The administrative structure is governed under the Ministry of Home Affairs, ensuring direct central oversight. The merger of the two territories aimed to reduce administrative duplication, enhance governance, and promote uniform development.
The territory is divided into three districts:

1. Dadra and Nagar Haveli District (Silvassa as headquarters)
2. Daman District (Daman town)
3. Diu District (Diu island)

The Administrator’s Secretariat in Daman coordinates overall governance, while district collectors manage local administration. The official languages are Gujarati, Hindi, English, and Konkani, reflecting a blend of regional influences.

Demography and Society

According to the 2011 Census, the combined population of the Union Territory is about 585,000. Dadra and Nagar Haveli have a significant tribal population, constituting more than 60% of residents, mainly from tribes such as the Warli, Dhodia, Kokna, and Koli communities.
The people of Daman and Diu show a strong Portuguese cultural legacy, visible in local architecture, cuisine, and festivals. The Roman Catholic Church retains a presence, and Portuguese surnames remain common among the older population. The literacy rate is high, exceeding 77%, and the territory has a youthful demographic profile.

Economy and Industry

The economy of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu is driven by industrial production, tourism, fishing, and agriculture. The region benefits from its tax incentives and industrial-friendly policies, making it a hub for small and medium-scale industries.

• Silvassa, the capital of Dadra and Nagar Haveli, hosts numerous textile, plastic, engineering, and pharmaceutical manufacturing units.
• Daman is known for its light engineering, packaging, and brewery industries.
• Diu and Daman contribute through fishing, salt production, and tourism.

Agriculture remains vital in rural areas, with crops such as paddy, ragi, sugarcane, and banana cultivated along river valleys. The Daman Ganga River provides irrigation and supports fisheries.

Culture and Heritage

The cultural identity of the Union Territory represents a synthesis of tribal traditions, Gujarati customs, and Portuguese influences.

• Traditional tribal dances like Tarpa and Dhol are performed during harvest and marriage festivals in Dadra and Nagar Haveli.
• Folk music accompanied by indigenous instruments remains central to community life.
• The Portuguese-influenced architecture of Daman and Diu includes churches, forts, and colonial mansions.

Major festivals celebrated across the territory include Navratri, Diwali, Holi, and Christmas. Festa de Diu, a cultural festival, highlights local art, cuisine, and performances, attracting visitors from across the country.

Tourism and Landmarks

Tourism plays a significant role in the region’s economy, with Daman and Diu known for their coastal beauty, historical monuments, and tranquil atmosphere. Notable attractions include:

• Diu Fort, built by the Portuguese in the 16th century, overlooking the Arabian Sea.
• St. Paul’s Church, Diu – a masterpiece of baroque architecture.
• Devka Beach and Jampore Beach, Daman – popular for recreation and water sports.
• Church of Bom Jesus, Daman – built in 1603, showcasing exquisite wood carvings.
• Hirwa Van Gardens, Silvassa – a landscaped public park.
• Tribal Cultural Museum, Silvassa – preserving artefacts and ethnographic exhibits.

The territory’s tourism policy focuses on promoting eco-tourism and heritage tourism, encouraging sustainable development while conserving natural and cultural resources.

Infrastructure and Connectivity

The Union Territory has well-developed infrastructure relative to its size. National Highways 848A and 848B connect Silvassa and Daman with Mumbai, Vapi, and Surat. Vapi Railway Station, in neighbouring Gujarat, serves as the main rail link.
Diu Airport provides air connectivity to cities such as Mumbai and Ahmedabad. The ports of Daman and Diu handle limited cargo and fishing activities. Urban areas such as Silvassa and Daman have modern amenities, efficient electricity supply, and expanding digital networks.

Education and Health

Education is steadily expanding through institutions such as Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Government College, Silvassa, and Government Polytechnic, Daman. Literacy drives and scholarship schemes target tribal communities.
Healthcare infrastructure includes Government Medical College, Silvassa, along with primary health centres and district hospitals. Special programmes address nutrition, maternal health, and communicable diseases among tribal populations.

Environmental Features

The region is endowed with natural greenery and a humid tropical ecosystem. Forests cover parts of Nagar Haveli, supporting flora such as teak, mahua, and bamboo. The administration promotes afforestation and wildlife conservation, with sanctuaries like the Vasona Lion Safari and Satmaliya Deer Park enhancing biodiversity protection.
However, rapid industrialisation has raised concerns over pollution and waste management. Initiatives for green energy, waste recycling, and river rejuvenation are being implemented to maintain ecological balance.

Contemporary Significance

Since the 2020 merger, the Union Territory has become a more integrated administrative and economic unit. Its strategic coastal position, industrial growth, and cultural diversity contribute to its growing importance within western India. The government continues to focus on enhancing connectivity, education, and tourism infrastructure while preserving the territory’s unique multicultural heritage.