DADRA & NAGAR HAVELI INDUSTRIES ASSOCIATION based at Silvassa (DNHIA) is one of the oldest & highly recognized Industrial Association
| Capital | Area | Languages |
|---|---|---|
| SILVASSA | 491 Sq km | Bhili/Bildoli, Gujarati, Hindi, English |
The Union Territory of Dadra and Nagar Haveli is situated on the western coast of India between the parallels of 20° and 20°25' latitude north and between 72°50' and 73°15' longitude. It is surrounded by Valsad district of Gujarat and Thane & Nashik districts of Maharashtra.
The region includes ranges of the Sahyadri Mountains (Western Ghats). The central region is mostly plain with rich and fertile soil. The river Daman-Ganga and its tributaries flow through the territory and drain into the Arabian Sea.
The climate is warm and humid in summer and moderate during monsoon. South-west monsoon (June–September) brings heavy rainfall (250–300 cm annually). Winters are generally pleasant.
The region depends on Gujarat and Maharashtra transport systems. Total road length is approx. 342 km. Mumbai is the nearest airport.
Dadra & Nagar Haveli has a rich history of 72 villages. It was ruled by the Portuguese for over a century. It was liberated in July 1954 and became a Union Territory on August 11, 1961.
Tribal Cultural Museum (Silvassa): Collection of masks, musical instruments, and tribal artifacts.
Vanganga Lake & Island Garden: Beautiful garden with bridges, jogging tracks, and boating.
Dudhni: Scenic waterfront near Madhuban Dam offering camping and water views.
Hirwa Van: Garden with waterfalls, stone structures, and lush greenery.
Vandhara Udyan: Riverside park ideal for picnics.
Mini Zoo & Bal Udyan: Family-friendly park with animals and play areas.
Industrial development began after 1965 with cooperative industrial estates. Today, Silvassa, Masat, and Khadoli host over 1,600 small-scale units and 430 medium/large industries in textiles, engineering, plastics, electronics, and chemicals, employing over 43,000 people.
All major Hindu, Muslim, and Christian festivals are celebrated. Tribal festivals include Diwaso, Raksha Bandhan (Dhodia tribe), Bhawada (Varli tribe), and Khali Puja after harvest.