Merger Day

26th January 2020, is marked as 'Nirman Diwas' or  ‘Merger Day’ of two Union territories – ‘Dadra and Nagar Haveli’, and ‘Diu and Daman’. After the merger the new territory is known with a simple new name ‘Dadra and Nagar Haveli, and Diu and Daman’ without compromising on their long known identities. The merger of the two UTs, located along the western coast near Gujarat, is exercised for better administration and to avoid duplication of various works. The history of achieving freedom and their establishment as union territories is really interesting. Both the union territories were under Portuguese rule for a long time and were liberated in December, 1961. From 1961 to 1987, Daman and Diu was part of the UT of Goa. When Goa attained statehood in the year 1987, Daman and Diu was made a separate Union Territory. Since, June, 1783 Dadra and Nagar Haveli was under the Portuguese rule. Finally, on August 2, 1954 residents of Dadra and Nagar Haveli liberated themselves from Portuguese rule. From, 1954 to 1961, the territory was administered by a citizen’s council called the Varishta Panchayat of Free Dadra and Nagar Haveli. Later, in the year 1961, Dadra and Nagar Haveli was merged with the Republic of India and made a Union Territory. After, all these long years these two U.T.s are merged again on 26th January  in the year 2020 with new area around 603 km2 (233 sq mi). Both these territories are beautiful in their own way and perfect getaways to experience serenity away from the hustle bustle of the cities. A perfect amalgamation of modernity and nature makes these locations favorite amongst travelers. The UT Administration each year celebrates the  Nirman Diwas by organising several activities and competitions. The  public buildings are lit up .