Telangana CM Revanth Reddy Begins Harvard Leadership Programme Amid Snowstorm, Sparks Political Debate

Hyderabad, Jan 2026 : Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy has embarked on an executive education programme at the prestigious Harvard Kennedy School in Cambridge, Massachusetts, marking a rare academic milestone for a serving Indian Chief Minister. The programme commenced with an orientation and cohort introduction, according to an official statement issued by the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO).

Titled “Leadership for the 21st Century: Chaos, Conflict and Courage,” the course formally began on Sunday afternoon (local time) with an inaugural session on “Analysing Authority and Leadership.” The programme brings together participants from over 20 countries across five continents, creating a diverse global classroom focused on contemporary governance and leadership challenges.

Classes began early on Monday, starting at 7 a.m., and involved intensive academic engagement including large-scale case studies, consultative group work, and interactive discussions. The academic schedule is rigorous, with sessions running late into the evening, often until 6 p.m. Revanth Reddy is expected to attend lectures, complete assignments, submit homework, and actively participate in group projects alongside international peers until January 30.

Adding to the challenge, the Chief Minister’s academic journey is unfolding amid severe winter conditions in the Boston region. A winter emergency has been declared across the area due to Storm Fern, which has brought over two feet of snowfall and plunging temperatures below minus 20 degrees Celsius. Despite the harsh weather, the programme has continued as scheduled.

Revanth Reddy had travelled to the United States after attending the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting in Davos, Switzerland, last week. The CMO claims that he is the first Chief Minister in independent India to enrol in a formal executive education programme at an Ivy League university while holding office. Upon completion, he will receive a course certification from Harvard, another first for a serving Indian CM.

However, the move has triggered political controversy back home. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has criticised the Chief Minister’s decision, questioning both the timing and financial prudence of the overseas programme. BJP state chief spokesperson N. V. Subash remarked that leadership is shaped through governance, accountability, and results rather than short-term academic courses.

Subash also questioned whether such academic pursuits should have been completed earlier in life, arguing that Revanth Reddy’s primary responsibility lies in administering Telangana. He further alleged that the foreign academic engagement reflects a prioritisation of personal aspirations over pressing public duties.

Despite the criticism, the Chief Minister’s Office has maintained that the programme will enhance leadership skills and global perspectives, which can ultimately benefit governance and policy-making in Telangana.

Team Maverick.