The Portuguese governed India for 463 years after the discovery by Vasco da Gama in 1498 till the colonial officials liberate Goa from the rule of Portugal in 1961. Their rule influenced the realm of politics in addition to the cultural fields and economy and social systems of India.

Political Contributions

1. Sea Supremacy: The Portuguese came to be in charge of Indian ports when they established their first maritime European empire as part of their control of Goa, Daman and Diu.
2. Incorporation of Fortification: The Portuguese erected defensive forts like Fort Aguada in Goa to influence the development of coastal defense technique in India.

Cultural and Religious Contributions

1. Christianity: The Portuguese, through their Christian missionary missions, built several churches; one of which is the Basilica of Bom Jesus, found in Goa.
2. Art and Architecture: During their administration, they synthesized Indian and Portuguese artistic styles which culminated into some remarkable visual effects both in religious as well as in residential constructions.
Economic Contributions

1. Spices and Trade: Through their monopoly of trade the Portuguese had a monopoly over spices and. File Input Stream the introduction of critical crops in India, cashew and tobacco and pineapple.
2. Minting Coins: Under the Portuguese they issued an escudo among other currency to have gold coins that facilitated trade.
Social Contributions

1. Printing Press: The first Indian printing press was brought by the Portuguese in 1556 that enabled greater dissemination of literature along with religious texts.
2. Cuisine: Indian cuisine gained vinegar and vindaloo and bread-making techniques after the Portuguese occupation of Indian soil.

Though exploitation was the hallmark of their regime, these cultural and economic developments will forever mold India’s cultural structure and economic base.