Daman and Diu

Daman and Diu is a union territory in India. The areas used to be part of Portuguese India along with Goa. From 1962 to 1987 they were administered as part of a single union territory. In 1987 Goa was granted statehood leaving Daman and Diu as a territory.

Gujarati is the main language; use of Portuguese is declining because it is not official or taught at school (but still spoken by 10% in Daman). There are Portuguese Creoles in Damão (known as Língua da Casa, it means Home Language) and Diu. The Creole of Diu is rapidly becoming extinct by the pressure of Gujarati.

Daman

Daman is on the western coast of India surrounded by Gujarat and north of Maharashtra. Daman lies on the river Daman-Ganga. Major industries have factories here. The closest railway station is Vapi (7 km). It is also famous for its beach, Portuguese architecture, and church. Also known for the scenic beauty in the twin cities of Nani-Daman and Moti-Daman. The chief occupation has been fishing. The nearest biggest City is Mumbai. Both Daman and Diu were under the rule of Portugal for over 450 years and were integrated in India in December 19,1962. Goa was also a part of the Portugal government in India and was also integrated on the same day. Portugal did not recognized Indian rule in these territories.

Diu

Diu is an island off the south west coast of Gujarat. It is famous for its old Portuguese Cathedral. It is also a fishing town. The Indian Air Force has an air base here. It was under the rule of Portugal for over