Northeast Desk, July 28, 2024 — In a historic first for Tripura, Jishnu Dev Varma, the former Deputy Chief Minister of the state, has been appointed as the Governor of Telangana. This marks the first time a native of Tripura will serve as a governor in another state.
Dev Varma, who was born to Rajkumar Ramendra Kishore Dev Varma and Maharajkumari Kamal Prava Devi, has been a steadfast member of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Joining the party in the early 1990s, he remained loyal through years when the BJP had little influence in Tripura’s political landscape, which was dominated by the Communist Party of India (Marxist).
His political career reached a pinnacle when he served as Tripura’s second Deputy Chief Minister from 2018 to 2023, following his victory in the Charilam constituency. During his tenure, he managed key portfolios including Finance, Rural Development, and Power.
Despite his recent defeat in the 2024 Assembly Election to a candidate from Tipra Motha, Dev Varma’s new appointment underscores his significant political and administrative experience. He is also the uncle of Pradyot Kishore Manikya Debbarma, the former chairman of Tipra Motha and a fellow member of Tripura’s royal family.
In addition to his political endeavors, Dev Varma is a respected writer and poet in the Northeast. He has also been an active sports enthusiast, having served as President of the Badminton Association of India from 1990 to 1993. His cultural contributions include roles with the Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage and the North Eastern Council’s Cultural Advisory Committee.
Dev Varma’s appointment as Governor of Telangana is seen as a recognition of his extensive service and dedication to public life.