Dadra & Nagar Haveli and Daman & Diu

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Dadra & Nagar Haveli and Daman & Diu, now merged into one Union Territory as of January 26, 2020, offer a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and cultural heritage. Located on the western coast of India, the territory is home to verdant landscapes, beautiful beaches, historical forts, and a diverse cultural identity shaped by its Portuguese colonial past. 

Historical Background of Dadra & Nagar Haveli

The history of Dadra & Nagar Haveli is shaped by its interactions with different regional powers and Portuguese colonization. Initially, the region was controlled by local Koli chiefs until the Marathas took over in the 17th century. In 1779, the Marathas made a treaty with the Portuguese, allowing them to collect taxes in exchange for compensation for the loss of a Maratha warship, the “Santana.” This marked the start of Portuguese involvement in the area.

For nearly 170 years, the Portuguese ruled Dadra & Nagar Haveli with little concern for the local people, exploiting the tribes and engaging in corrupt practices. On August 2, 1954, local volunteers, with support from the Indian government, freed the region. It was then governed by an advisor and an administrator until it officially became part of India in 1961 through the Dadra & Nagar Haveli Act.

Historical Background of Daman & Diu

Daman & Diu have a similar history, especially with the Portuguese. Daman, an important port, came under Portuguese control in 1559 after a treaty with the Sultan of Gujarat. The Portuguese established forts in the region to protect their territories. Diu was taken by the Portuguese in 1546 after they formed an alliance with the Sultan of Gujarat against the Mughals.

The Portuguese ruled both Daman & Diu until 1961 when Indian forces liberated these areas through a military operation, bringing them into the Union Territory of Goa, Daman, and Diu. After Goa became a state in 1987, Daman & Diu became a separate Union Territory.

Also Read: List of Indian States And Their Capitals 

Dadra & Nagar Haveli and Daman & Diu Polity, Geography and Climate

Dadra & Nagar Haveli and Daman & Diu, although geographically distinct, share several common features due to their proximity. Dadra & Nagar Haveli is landlocked between Gujarat to the north and Maharashtra to the south, while Daman & Diu lie along the western coastline, bordering the Arabian Sea.

Dadra & Nagar Haveli is a small district with an area of 491 square kilometers. It is situated on the foothills of the Western Ghats, and the Daman Ganga River flows through it. The district’s climate is characterized by warm summers, humid monsoons, and cool winters. Average temperatures in summer range from 24°C to 38°C, while winter temperatures are more pleasant, from 11°C to 22°C.

Daman & Diu, consisting of two separate islands (Daman & Diu), also enjoys a tropical climate. Daman has an area of 72 square kilometers, and Diu spans 40 square kilometers. The territory experiences a typical coastal climate with warm summers, heavy monsoon rainfall, and pleasant winters. Both regions receive considerable rainfall, ranging from 2,000 to 3,000 mm annually, which supports their lush green environments.

Dadra & Nagar Haveli and Daman & Diu Culture and Demographics 

Dadra & Nagar Haveli and Daman & Diu are home to a diverse cultural heritage, heavily influenced by their Portuguese colonial past, but also by the traditions of the native tribal populations and surrounding regions like Gujarat and Maharashtra.

• The population of Dadra & Nagar Haveli as per the 2011 census was 343,709, with a literacy rate of 76.2%. The people of this region speak a mix of Gujarati, Marathi, Portuguese, Hindi, and tribal languages like Varli and Kokni.
• In Daman, the population was 191,173, with a literacy rate of 88.06%.
• In Diu, the population stood at 52,074, with a literacy rate of 83.46%.

Also Read: Andhra Pradesh

The linguistic diversity reflects the historical melting pot of different cultures and the influence of Portuguese rule.

The Union Territory is also home to vibrant tribal communities, including the Varli and Kokni tribes in Dadra & Nagar Haveli. These communities continue to maintain their unique cultural practices, dance forms, and music. The Tarpa Dance, Bhawada Dance, and Gheria Dance are popular in Dadra & Nagar Haveli, while Daman & Diu have their own traditional dances, such as the Mando and Verdigao dances.

Image: Tarpa Dance

Also Read: Arunachal Pradesh

Political and Legislative Framework Dadra & Nagar Haveli and Daman & Diu

Dadra & Nagar Haveli and Daman & Diu (DNHDD) is a Union Territory (UT) of India, governed directly by the Central Government through an appointed Administrator. The UT was formed in January 2020 by merging the former UTs of Dadra & Nagar Haveli and Daman & Diu, under the Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu (Merger of Union Territories) Act, 2019.

Representation in Parliament

• Lok Sabha (House of the People):

• Total Seats: 1
• Current MP (as of the 2024 general election): Mohanbhai Sanjibhai Delkar (Bharatiya Janata Party – BJP)

• Rajya Sabha (Council of States):

• Total Seats: 0 as Union Territories without a legislative assembly do not have representation in the Rajya Sabha.

Rivers Dadra & Nagar Haveli and Daman & Diu

Several west-flowing rivers run through the Dadra & Nagar Haveli and Daman & Diu, providing water for farming, drinking, wildlife, and development projects.

• Daman Ganga River: The Daman Ganga, also called the Dawan River, originates from the Sahyadri Hills near Ambegaon in the Nashik district, Maharashtra.

• Length: ~131 km
• Mouth: Arabian Sea near Daman
• Tributaries: Dawan, Vag, Shrimant, Sakartond, Roshni, Dudhni, Wagh
• Significance: Flows through Silvassa, Dadra, and Daman, supporting drinking water, irrigation, and industrial needs.

• Kolak River: Originates in the Valsad region of Gujarat and flows westward into Daman.

• Wagh River: The Wagh River is one of the major tributaries of the Daman Ganga River, originating in the hilly regions near Maharashtra-Gujarat border.

• Flows through: Forested regions of Dadra and Nagar Haveli
• Significance: Supports local agriculture and feeds into the Daman Ganga reservoir system
• Role: Key component in the Daman Ganga–Pinjal River Linking Project

• Piperiya and Lendi Rivers: These are small seasonal rivers that serve the forested and tribal areas of Dadra and Nagar Haveli.

Dadra & Nagar Haveli Wildlife Sanctuaries

• Total Area: ~97 km² (37 sq mi)
• Location: Dadra and Nagar Haveli region, near Silvassa
• Governing Body: Dadra and Nagar Haveli Tourism Department

This sanctuary consists of two key sections:

• Satmalia Deer Park

• Location: Near Khanvel village, on Silvassa-Khanvel Road, ~12 km from Silvassa
• Fauna Highlights:
  • Antelope species: Chital, Nilgai, Sambar, Chinkara, Blackbuck
  • Birds: Indian Peafowl, Flameback Woodpecker, Thrushes, etc.
• Scenic spot: Known for its water bodies and a watchtower for panoramic views

• Vasona Lion Safari Park

• Location: Near Satmalia Deer Park, ~10 km south of Silvassa
• Purpose: Built for the preservation of Asiatic Lions
• Other species: Hosts reptiles including Pythons
• Attraction: Visitors are taken in special vehicles through fenced areas to view lions in a semi-natural habitat

Also Read: Assam

Dadra & Nagar Haveli and Daman & Diu Major Attractions and Tourism

Union Territory of Dadra & Nagar Haveli and Daman & Diu boasts several natural and historical attractions that draw tourists year-round.

• Dadra & Nagar Haveli

1. 1. • Dadra & Nagar Haveli is renowned for its natural beauty, with dense forests, wildlife sanctuaries, and tranquil rivers.
      • Silvassa city, the administrative capital, offers a range of gardens, parks, and cultural venues, including the Vanganga Lake Garden and the Dudhni Lake.
      • Khanvel area is known for its lush green surroundings, while the Tribal Cultural Museum in Silvassa offers insights into the region’s indigenous communities.

• Daman

1. 1. • Daman is a charming coastal town known for its beautiful beaches, historic forts, and churches.
      • Notable attractions include the Moti Daman Fort, Devka Beach, Jampore Beach, and the Bom Jesus Church.
      • The town is also home to the Mirasol Lake Resort, a tranquil getaway for visitors looking to escape the bustling city life.

• Diu

1. • Diu, an island known for its serene beaches and picturesque landscapes, offers several important attractions.
   • Diu Fort, which dates back to the Portuguese era, stands as a reminder of the colonial past, while Ghoghla Beach, one of the Blue Flag-certified beaches, is a popular spot for relaxation.
   • Naida Caves and Gangeshwar Mahadev Temple add to the spiritual and historical appeal of the island.
   • INS Khukri Memorial and the Diu Museum are also significant historical sites.

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Dadra & Nagar Haveli and Daman & Diu FAQs

Who is the current Chief Justice of India (as of May 2025)?

Justice Bhushan Ramkrishna Gavai is the current Chief Justice of India.

Who is the 52nd Chief Justice of India?

Justice B. R. Gavai is the 52nd Chief Justice of India.

What is the salary of the Chief Justice of India?

The salary of CJI is ₹2,80,000 per month (as per 2024 figures).

Who was the first CJI?

Harilal J. Kania was the first Chief Justice of India.

How is the Chief Justice of India appointed?

The President of India appoints the Chief Justice based on the recommendation of the outgoing CJI, following the seniority rule among Supreme Court judges.

Can a Chief Justice of India become the President of India?

While rare, a Chief Justice can serve as Acting President if both the President and Vice-President's offices are vacant, as per Article 65 of the Constitution (e.g., Justice M. Hidayatullah in 1969).

Who was the longest-serving Chief Justice of India?

Justice Y. V. Chandrachud served the longest tenure—from 1978 to 1985—totaling over 7 years.