Explanations:
To understand the administrative status of Goa, it is essential to delve into the history and current political structure of India. India is a federal union comprising 28 states and 8 union territories. States and union territories have different levels of autonomy and governance structures within the Indian Union.
Goa, located on the western coast of India, was a Portuguese colony until 1961. After India's independence in 1947, Goa remained under Portuguese control until it was liberated by the Indian Armed Forces in 1961. Following liberation, Goa was initially established as a union territory of India. A union territory is an administrative division governed directly by the Union Government, with limited self-governance.
However, in 1987, Goa was granted statehood, making it the 25th state of India. This change was significant as it allowed Goa to have its own elected legislative assembly and greater autonomy in governance. The transition from a union territory to a state was a result of the Goa, Daman and Diu (Statehood) Act, 1987, which was passed by the Indian Parliament.
The distinction between states and union territories is crucial for understanding the administrative structure of India. States have their own elected governments and legislative assemblies, while union territories are governed directly by the Union Government, often with an appointed administrator. Goa, as a state, has its own legislative assembly and enjoys a higher degree of autonomy compared to a union territory.
Therefore, the statement "Goa is a union territory" is incorrect. Goa is a state, not a union territory, as it has been since 1987. This knowledge is important for students preparing for competitive examinations that test general knowledge and understanding of the Indian political and administrative system.