Port Blai/Delhi : Tourism-led growth, employment generation and strategic development are set to form the core of Lieutenant Governor-designate Dr. Dinesh Sharma’s vision for the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, with the incoming administrator stressing the need to turn the Union Territory into a globally recognised tourism destination while ensuring that development creates opportunities for local youth.
Speaking to a section of the press media at Delhi ahead of his scheduled swearing-in on September 15, the former Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister said the Islands’ development would be pursued with a clear roadmap and in close coordination with the local administration and stakeholders.
Describing Andaman and Nicobar as a “crown jewel” of India, Dr. Sharma said his priority would be to harness its enormous tourism potential and position the Islands among the world’s leading tourist destinations. He linked tourism and infrastructure expansion directly with the creation of sustainable employment for islanders.
At the same time, he underlined the strategic importance of the archipelago, indicating that major development initiatives would be aligned with the Centre’s broader strategic and defence priorities in the Bay of Bengal. Dr. Sharma said a detailed roadmap for the Islands would be finalised soon after he assumes office, following consultations with the administration and other stakeholders. He acknowledged that every administrative assignment brings its own challenges but expressed confidence that determination, proper planning and a forward-looking approach could deliver results.
Asked about his transition from active politics in Uttar Pradesh to the constitutional office of Lieutenant Governor, Dr. Sharma sought to draw a clear distinction between political work and his new responsibilities. “I remain controversy-free, and governance must remain controversy-free. What is needed is development, not debate,” he said.
While maintaining that his goodwill towards his political party remains unchanged, Dr. Sharma made it clear that his constitutional responsibilities would require him to rise above partisan considerations and concentrate on public service and the comprehensive development of the Islands.
With tourism, infrastructure, employment and strategic connectivity emerging as key priorities, the new administration is expected to translate this broad vision into a concrete development roadmap after the new Lt Governor assuming the charge at Lok Niwas, Port Blair next Tuesday.
