Government Proposes Merger of Daman and Diu, Dadra
The government of India has proposed a major administrative reform with the introduction of a Bill in the Lok Sabha aimed at merging two Union Territories—Daman and Diu and Dadra and Nagar Haveli—into a single entity. Union Minister of State for Home Affairs, G Kishan Reddy, presented the Bill, emphasizing the need for streamlined governance and the consolidation of resources. This move follows similar restructuring actions, such as the bifurcation of Jammu and Kashmir into Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh, alongside the revocation of Article 370. The merger is expected to lead to better administrative efficiency, economic development, and the alignment of policies between the two regions.
As the Bill is debated, the decision is seen as part of a larger effort to reduce administrative overheads in smaller Union Territories, while fostering greater coordination. The potential benefits include shared infrastructure, unified governance structures, and easier resource allocation. Though the merger is still under consideration, it could mark the beginning of more such structural reforms across the country.
This proposal will likely have a long-term impact on the socio-political landscape of the Union Territories. By consolidating the two regions, the government aims to facilitate smoother development processes, boost tourism, and improve the delivery of essential services to the residents. If passed, the Bill will pave the way for administrative coherence and a more integrated approach to regional governance in the area.