Dinesh Sharma Takes Charge as Lieutenant Governor of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands

Newly‑minted Lieutenant Governor of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Dinesh Sharma, a senior BJP leader, told reporters on Wednesday that his latest posting is only the start of a much longer journey. While still a Member of Parliament, he assured that his focus would be on the country’s progress, the welfare of domestic tourists and the social fabric of the islands.

Sharma made the remarks after wrapping up the final meeting of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Finance. The gathering turned into a brief but warm send‑off, with committee members congratulating him on the new assignment. "This is just the beginning," he said, his tone a mix of optimism and determination.

He added that, for the time being, he will align his work with the vision set by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah. "Right now we will follow the path of the Prime Minister and the Home Minister. After that, we will carve out a roadmap for the future," Sharma explained, hinting at his own plans once he gets settled.

On the procedural front, Sharma said he intends to resign from the Rajya Sabha very soon – possibly today – depending on when the Vice President is available to accept his resignation. "I have to submit my resignation as MP. If the Vice President can meet today, I’ll do it tomorrow; otherwise, I’ll wait for the earliest slot," he told ANI.

He also confirmed that he will travel to the islands and take his oath on 15 September. Before the ceremony, a meeting with Home Minister Amit Shah is on the agenda, a step he described as essential to ensure a smooth transition.

The President, Droupadi Murmu, officially appointed Sharma as Lieutenant Governor on Saturday, as per a Rashtrapati Bhavan communique. The 62‑year‑old politician, who previously served as Deputy Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, now faces the challenge of overseeing a strategically vital archipelago.

Sharma’s comments, though brief, underline a broader political narrative: a senior leader stepping into a role that blends administrative responsibility with the BJP’s larger developmental agenda. As he prepares to leave the national capital for the distant islands, all eyes will be on how his promises translate into concrete actions on the ground.