Tourism Industry in Dadra and Nagar Haveli: Prospects, Challenges and Government Initiatives

The paper discussed prospects and challenges of tourism industry in Dadra and Nagar Haveli. It has found that Dadra and Nagar Haveli is popular among tourist due to lush greenery and immense natural beauty. It previously was a Portuguese colony. It is famous for the production of baskets, weaving of bamboo mats and leather slippers. Nakshatra Garden, Vasona Lion Safari, Satmaliya Deer Park, Dudhani, Hirwa Van Garden and Vanganga Lake are the major attractions. Sahyadri Mountains (Western Hills) is the another tourist attraction. It has reserve of minerals like sulphur, selenite, nickel, limestone and gold. BAPS Swaminarayan Temple is famous among tourists. Barash is the popular tribal festival celebrated in September month. Ragi (nagli), rice, bajra and kodra are the staple food of the tribals. Its main tribes are Varli, Kokna and Dhodia with small groups of Dubla, Naika, Kathodi and Koli scattered over the territory. Dublas and Dhodias tribes are more found in the northern part, but Varlis and Koknas are found all over the territory. The key challenges facing tourism are the lack of marketing and promotion activities, inadequate infrastructure, lack of skilled manpower, safety and security. Although there are many challenges before the tourism industry, but it has bright future prospect in tourism.