Dadra and Nagar Haveli

Dadra and Nagar Haveli is a union territory of India located in the western region of the country, nestled between the states of Gujarat and Maharashtra. Known for its lush greenery, tribal culture, and industrial development, the territory has a distinctive historical and administrative identity. Since 26 January 2020, it has been administratively merged with the neighbouring Daman and Diu to form the Union Territory of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu (DNHDD). Despite the merger, Dadra and Nagar Haveli continue to retain their geographical and cultural individuality within the larger union territory.

Geography and Location

Dadra and Nagar Haveli consist of two separate enclaves: Dadra, located near Vapi in Gujarat, and Nagar Haveli, situated between the Par and Daman Ganga rivers. The territory covers an area of approximately 491 square kilometres, making it one of the smaller administrative units in India.
The landscape is characterised by undulating hills, river valleys, and forested regions, with the Western Ghats forming the eastern boundary. About 43% of the area is covered by forests, hosting a rich diversity of flora and fauna. Major rivers such as the Daman Ganga and its tributaries traverse the region, providing water for agriculture and industry. The climate is generally tropical, with hot summers, heavy monsoons, and mild winters. Average annual rainfall is around 2000 mm, concentrated between June and September.

Historical Background

The history of Dadra and Nagar Haveli reflects a blend of indigenous heritage and colonial influences. Before the colonial era, the area was under the rule of local tribal chieftains and later incorporated into various regional kingdoms, including that of the Marathas.
In 1779, the Marathas granted the territory to the Portuguese as compensation for their support against the Peshwas. The Portuguese retained control for nearly 180 years, making it one of their oldest possessions in India after Goa, Daman, and Diu.
Following India’s independence in 1947, nationalist movements in the region intensified. On 2 August 1954, the local population, assisted by Indian nationalists and volunteers, liberated Dadra and Nagar Haveli from Portuguese rule. For a brief period, the region functioned as a free administrative entity known as the Free Dadra and Nagar Haveli Administration, before formally joining the Indian Union in 1961 as a Union Territory.

Administrative Structure

Since the administrative reorganisation in 2020, Dadra and Nagar Haveli form part of the Union Territory of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu, with Daman serving as the shared capital. The territory is governed by a Lieutenant Governor, appointed by the President of India, and administered through various departments managed by centrally appointed officers.
Local governance operates through District Panchayats, Village Panchayats, and Municipal Councils, ensuring local participation in developmental planning. The administration focuses on industrial growth, tribal welfare, education, healthcare, and environmental protection.

Demography and Society

As per the 2011 Census, the population of Dadra and Nagar Haveli was around 343,709, with a high proportion of Scheduled Tribes, constituting about 52% of the total population. The main tribal communities include the Warli, Dhodia, Kokna, Koli, Naika, and Kathodi.
The population density is around 698 persons per sq km, and the literacy rate stands at 77.6%, showing significant progress in recent decades. Hindi, Gujarati, Marathi, and Bhili are widely spoken languages, reflecting the territory’s multilingual and multicultural composition.
The majority of the population follows Hinduism, while minorities include Christians, Muslims, and followers of indigenous tribal faiths. Tribal art forms, folk dances like Tarpa, and traditional festivals such as Divaso and Kale Dungar reflect the cultural vibrancy of the region.

Economy and Industry

Historically an agrarian region, Dadra and Nagar Haveli have undergone rapid industrialisation since the late 20th century. The Daman Ganga River valley provided the necessary water resources and connectivity for industrial expansion. The establishment of tax incentives and industrial estates attracted significant private investment.
Key industries include:

• Textiles and garments
• Plastics and packaging materials
• Chemicals and pharmaceuticals
• Engineering goods and electrical equipment
• Paper and printing

The territory is home to several industrial estates, notably in Silvassa, the administrative headquarters. Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) play a vital role in local employment generation.
Agriculture remains relevant in rural areas, with crops such as paddy, ragi, jowar, sugarcane, and pulses being cultivated. Horticulture, particularly the production of mangoes, bananas, and chikoos, complements the rural economy. Animal husbandry, dairy, and forestry also contribute to livelihoods.

Infrastructure and Connectivity

Dadra and Nagar Haveli have developed an extensive network of roads and communication facilities. Silvassa is connected by road to Vapi (17 km), which lies on the Mumbai–Ahmedabad railway corridor, ensuring access to major markets and ports. The nearest airports are at Daman (about 30 km) and Mumbai (180 km).
Electricity coverage is almost universal, and the region benefits from power projects on the Daman Ganga River. Water supply and sanitation facilities have improved considerably under centrally sponsored schemes such as the Jal Jeevan Mission.
Telecommunication services are well-established, with high mobile penetration and increasing internet connectivity. The region’s infrastructure development has facilitated both industrial growth and tourism promotion.

Tourism and Culture

Tourism in Dadra and Nagar Haveli combines natural beauty, tribal heritage, and recreational facilities. Major attractions include:

• Vanganga Lake Garden in Dadra – a scenic lake with boating and landscaped gardens.
• Hirwa Van Garden in Silvassa – known for its waterfalls and flower beds.
• Lion Safari Wildlife Park and Vasona Deer Park – promoting eco-tourism and wildlife conservation.
• Tribal Museum in Silvassa – showcasing artefacts, traditional tools, and costumes of indigenous communities.
• Dudhni Lake – a popular site for water sports and rural homestay experiences.

The region’s tribal handicrafts, Warli paintings, and handwoven products are widely appreciated and promoted through local cooperatives.

Governance and Developmental Initiatives

The administration has prioritised inclusive development, with programmes targeting education, healthcare, and women’s empowerment. The Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA) and National Health Mission (NHM) have improved social indicators. Industrial policies have been framed to ensure environmentally sustainable growth, while eco-restoration projects focus on forest protection and biodiversity conservation.
Efforts are ongoing to enhance digital governance and public service delivery through e-governance platforms. The Smart City initiatives in Silvassa and the Make in India framework have further boosted investment and employment.