Yanam

Yanam is a district of the Union Territory of Puducherry, India. It lies on the southeastern coast and forms one of Puducherry’s four geographically separate enclaves, surrounded by Andhra Pradesh and facing the Bay of Bengal. The district administrative center is the town of Yanam.

Historically part of French India, Yanam was governed by France until it was ceded to India after the 1954 de facto transfer and the 1956 treaty of cession. Since then it has been administered as part of the Puducherry Union Territory and is represented in the Puducherry Legislative Assembly.

Geographically, Yanam sits along the eastern coast and is linked by road to nearby towns in Andhra Pradesh. The economy centers on fishing and agriculture, with services and public administration also employing residents. Road transport is the main link to the mainland; the nearest railheads and airports are in broader Andhra Pradesh and neighboring states.

Demographics: The district has a small population, typically described as tens of thousands. Telugu is the predominant language, with Tamil and remnants of French influence in local culture. The community includes Hindu and Christian adherents, and the area preserves various religious and cultural traditions.