Port Blai/Lucknow: Strengthening civic infrastructure and responding directly to the aspirations and concerns of the islanders will be the primary focus of Lt Governor-designate Dr Dinesh Sharma as he takes charge of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, signalling an emphasis on people-centric governance alongside the Union Territory’s strategic and developmental priorities.
Reacting to the announcement of his appointment, the former Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister and Rajya Sabha MP described the new responsibility not as an office of power, but as a “sacred duty to the Constitution, the nation and public service.”
In an informal chat with the local media at Lucknow, Dr Sharma underlined the unique character of the archipelago, stressing that the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are far more than a global tourism destination. Located at the maritime crossroads of the Bay of Bengal and the Indo-Pacific, the islands occupy a position of considerable strategic and national importance.
He said governance in such a sensitive territory required a fine balance between development, ecological protection and the legitimate aspirations of its people. “Andaman and Nicobar is a vital territory attracting travellers from across India and around the globe. Operating here demands acute alertness, ecological sensitivity and a responsive administration to unlock its immense tourism and economic potential while preserving its fragile beauty,” Dr Sharma observed.
His emphasis on strengthening civic infrastructure and addressing islanders’ aspirations assumes particular significance as the Union Territory faces persistent challenges relating to connectivity, roads and bridges, water supply, power, healthcare, housing and other essential public services.
Dr Sharma said his approach to public life had consistently been guided by the principle of turning challenges into opportunities. Recalling his journey from university professor to two-time Mayor of Lucknow, Deputy Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh and parliamentarian, he said this philosophy would continue to guide him in his new assignment.
He also reaffirmed his commitment to the policy priorities of the Union Government, and said that the decision of the party leadership was paramount and assured that he would work towards seamless coordination with the Centre to translate development policies into tangible outcomes on the ground.
His appointment comes at a time when the islands are witnessing renewed focus on major infrastructure and connectivity initiatives, including transshipment-related development and sustainable tourism.
