Dadra and Nagar Haveli

Dadra and Nagar Haveli, located in western India, is a district within the union territory of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu. It's made up of two parts: Nagar Haveli, which sits between Maharashtra and Gujarat, and Dadra, a smaller enclave surrounded by Gujarat. The administrative hub, Silvassa, oversees affairs in this region.

What's unique about Dadra and Nagar Haveli is its history. While the nearby regions were under different rulers, this area was governed by the Portuguese until the mid-20th century. In 1954, pro-India forces took control, leading to its status as Free Dadra and Nagar Haveli before officially joining India as a union territory in 1961.

Then, on January 26, 2020, it merged with Daman and Diu to form the new union territory of "Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu." Now, Dadra and Nagar Haveli is one of the districts within this new territory.

Join us as we delve into the captivating history and vibrant present of Dadra and Nagar Haveli, exploring its unique journey and embracing its diverse culture.

Dadra and Nagar Haveli's Historical Journey

The history of Dadra and Nagar Haveli unveils a tale of shifting powers and struggles for independence. It all began in 1262 when a Rajput prince, Ram Singh, established himself as the ruler of Ramnagar, which included the region of present-day Dharampur.

This area was divided into eight Parganas, with Nagar Haveli serving as one of them and Silvassa as its capital. However, with the rise of Maratha power, the region witnessed conflicts and changing allegiances. Shivaji Maharaj captured Ramnagar, only for it to be recaptured by Somshah Rana in 1690.

The Treaty of Vasai in 1739 marked the shift of Vasai and its surrounding territories under Maratha rule. Subsequently, the Marathas acquired revenue collection rights over Nagar Haveli.

The Portuguese era began in 1783 when they were granted control over Nagar Haveli and later annexed Dadra in 1785. Under Portuguese rule, Dadra and Nagar Haveli were integrated into the Estado da Índia. However, the quest for independence grew stronger over time. 

In 1954, with the support of various organisations, the territories were liberated from Portuguese rule. Dadra and Nagar Haveli then existed as Free Dadra and Nagar Haveli until 1961, when they were officially integrated into the Republic of India.

The journey towards independence culminated in December 2019, with the merger of Dadra and Nagar Haveli with the nearby union territory of Daman and Diu, forming the new union territory of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu, effective from 26 January 2020.

Geographical Overview

Dadra and Nagar Haveli, spanning 491 square kilometres, nestles between Gujarat and Maharashtra, near India's western coast. Comprising Nagar Haveli and the smaller Dadra enclave, the region features the Madhuban reservoir at its heart, straddling the Gujarat border.

Dadra sits northwest of Nagar Haveli, while the Daman Ganga River flows through, with towns like Dadra and Silvassa lining its banks. The Eastern Ghats rise to the east, with a varied landscape ranging from hilly terrain in the south to fertile plains in the centre. 

Surrounded by Gujarat's Valsad District and Maharashtra's Thane District, it boasts diverse flora and fauna, including teak forests and more, covering 43% of the land. The Damanganga River and its tributaries add to its ecological richness.

The region's wildlife sanctuary, covering 19% of its area, harbours leopards, wildcats, and a myriad of bird species. The climate, influenced by its coastal position, features hot summers, monsoons from June to September, and mild winters characterised by temperatures ranging from 14 °C to 30 °C.

Administrative Divisions of Dadra and Nagar Haveli

Dadra and Nagar Haveli, spanning 487 square kilometres, are administratively divided into two sub-districts: Dadra and Nagar Haveli. Dadra serves as the headquarters of Dadra taluka and includes Dadra town along with two other villages.

The town of Dadra, known as Dadrá in Portuguese, is the main urban centre, while the villages of Vagadi and Demni contribute to the rural landscape. On the other hand, Nagar Haveli's administrative hub is Silvassa, overseeing Nagar Haveli taluka, which encompasses Silvassa town and an additional 68 villages.

Silvassa, bustling with activity, is the heart of Nagar Haveli, serving as a focal point for governance and community life, while the surrounding villages, including Tigrá (Tighra), complement its rural fabric. Together, these administrative units ensure the smooth functioning and development of Dadra and Nagar Haveli, catering to the needs of both urban and rural populations.

Economic Landscape

Dadra and Nagar Haveli's economy has grown significantly over the years, with its gross state domestic product increasing from $218 million in 2004 to $360 million in 2009.

It boasts a per capita GDP of $1,050. This economic expansion is fueled by five key sectors: agriculture, industries, forestry, animal husbandry, and tourism. 

Agriculture remains a cornerstone of the territory's economy, engaging approximately 60% of the workforce. With 48% of the total geographical area dedicated to cultivation, crops like paddy, ragi, sugarcane, and various fruits and vegetables thrive here, contributing significantly to the region's prosperity.

Moreover, forestry and animal husbandry play vital roles, with the majority of farmers belonging to tribal communities. 

The territory's manufacturing industries have also emerged as a driving force, propelled by tax incentives and government support. Since the establishment of the first industrial unit in 1965, industrialisation has accelerated, creating employment opportunities and attracting entrepreneurs.

Currently, over 2,710 units operate in Dadra and Nagar Haveli, providing jobs to around 46,000 people and injecting a capital investment of 377.8310 million. The diverse industrial landscape encompasses small, medium, and large-scale industries, further enhancing the economic vibrancy of the region.

Demographic Diversity

According to the 2011 census, Dadra and Nagar Haveli, with a population of 343,709, has experienced significant growth, ranking 566th among all Indian districts.

Its population density stands at 698 inhabitants per square kilometre, and its remarkable population growth rate of 55.5% from 2001 to 2011 was the highest among all Indian states and union territories. 

The sex ratio is 775 females for every 1,000 males, with a literacy rate of 77.65%. The territory is predominantly inhabited by tribal groups, comprising 62% of the population, including prominent tribes like Dhodia, Kokna, and Warli.

Additionally, non-tribal residents from various parts of India contribute to the region's diversity, drawn by employment opportunities and a favourable climate. 

The territory's religious landscape reflects its historical heritage, with a significant Hindu population alongside a notable Roman Catholic community, particularly in Silvassa.

The linguistic diversity is evident, with languages like Gujarati, Hindi, Marathi, and English being widely spoken and taught in schools. The territory's demographic composition, rich in tribal cultures and diverse communities, adds to its cultural vibrancy and social fabric.

In conclusion, Dadra and Nagar Haveli represent a blend of history, culture, and progress. From its colonial past to its integration into India and recent mergers, it has transformed into a vibrant economic hub driven by agriculture, industries, and tourism.

Its diverse demographics, with a majority of tribal communities and a growing non-tribal population, contribute to its cultural richness and social harmony. As it moves forward, the region stands as a symbol of unity amidst diversity and promises a bright future for all its inhabitants.