Republica Portuguesa – Estado Da India stamp – 1957 was launched by the Portuguese administration of India. The Estado da India, also known as the Portuguese State of India, was a Portuguese overseas territory located in the Indian subcontinent between the 16th and 20th centuries. It consisted of several territories, including Goa, Daman, Diu, and Dadra and Nagar Haveli. The Estado da India was under Portuguese rule until it was annexed by India in 1961.
Stamps of the Portuguese Republic: The Portuguese Republic has a rich philatelic history and has issued numerous postage stamps over the years. Portuguese stamps feature various themes, including historical figures, cultural heritage, landmarks, flora and fauna, art, sports, and significant events. The stamps often bear the name “Republica Portuguesa” or “Portugal,” along with the denomination and other relevant information.
About Estado Da India
The Estado da Índia was established by the Portuguese Empire as a trading post and colonial territory. It included various regions and territories along the western coast of India, with its capital initially in Goa. Over time, the Portuguese expanded their control to include territories such as Daman, Diu, and Dadra and Nagar Haveli.
The Estado da India played a significant role in the Portuguese Empire’s trade network, particularly in spices, textiles, and precious stones. The Portuguese also established a strong presence in the region through the spread of Christianity and the establishment of missions and religious institutions.
However, the Estado da India faced challenges from other European powers and indigenous rulers who sought to assert their control over the region’s trade and resources. Eventually, with the decline of Portuguese influence and the rise of Indian nationalism, the Estado da India was integrated into independent India in 1961.
Today, the former territories of the Estado da India are part of the Indian states of Goa, Daman and Diu, and the union territory of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu. The region bears the imprint of Portuguese colonial influence in its architecture, culture, and cuisine.
Independence of Estado Da India
The Portuguese presence in India started declining due to various factors, including:
Military and Economic Challenges: The Portuguese faced military and economic challenges from other European powers, such as the Dutch, English, and French, who were expanding their influence in India. These European rivals established trading posts and began to undermine Portuguese control over key trade routes and territories.
Local Resistance: The Portuguese faced resistance from indigenous rulers and local populations who were discontent with Portuguese rule. This resistance often took the form of armed conflicts and rebellions, making it difficult for the Portuguese to maintain control over their territories.
Burden of Administration: The administration of the Estado da India became increasingly burdensome for the Portuguese. The vast distances, logistical challenges, and the need to defend their territories against rival European powers and local resistance groups strained Portuguese resources.
Indian Independence Movement: The rise of the Indian independence movement and the call for self-rule also played a significant role in the Portuguese departure from India. Indian nationalists viewed the presence of foreign colonial powers, including the Portuguese, as an affront to their aspirations for a free and independent India.
International Pressure: Internationally, there was growing pressure on Portugal to decolonize and grant independence to its overseas territories. The United Nations and other countries put diplomatic and economic pressure on Portugal to relinquish its colonial holdings.
In 1961, India launched a military operation known as “Operation Vijay” to liberate Goa, Daman, and Diu from Portuguese control. The Portuguese forces were overwhelmed, and ultimately, the territories were integrated into independent India. This marked the end of Portuguese rule in India.
About the stamp
This unique and rare stamp is of the times when India got independent but some territories like Nagar Haveli, Daman, Diu were still Portuguese colonies . They merged into India in 1961 and 1974 respectively. The Portuguese purchased Nagar Haveli and Dadra in 1780s and still occupied them till 1954 though retained administrative control until the 1960s.