Goa

Goa is a state located on India's western coast along the Konkan region. It is bordered by Maharashtra to the north, Karnataka to the east and south, and the Arabian Sea to the west. The state comprises a narrow coastal plain backed by the Western Ghats and includes two districts, North Goa and South Goa. The capital is Panaji.

Historically settled by various dynasties, Goa became a Portuguese colony after the early 16th century and remained under Portuguese rule until 1961, when Indian armed forces annexed it. Goa was a union territory until 1987, when it was granted statehood.

Goa has a population of about 1.6 million. The official language is Konkani; Marathi is widely spoken; English and Hindi are commonly used in education, government, and commerce. The state has a mix of Hindu, Christian and Muslim communities.

Economy and culture: Tourism is the primary economic activity, with beaches, colonial architecture, and a Portuguese-influenced culture. Goa hosts a UNESCO World Heritage Site comprising the Churches and Convents of Goa, including Basilica of Bom Jesus and Se Cathedral. Local cuisine features seafood, curries, and sweets such as bebinca; popular beverages include feni. Festivals such as Shigmo and Christmas are widely celebrated.

Infrastructure and governance: Goa has a unicameral legislative assembly. It is administered as a state with two main districts and a number of municipalities. Transport includes the Dabolim Airport and railway connectivity along the Konkan Railway; the state also has a major port at Mormugao.