Nitish Kumar Takes Oath as Bihar Chief Minister for the 10th Time: New Cabinet, Political Message, and What It Means for the State

Bihar witnessed a major political moment as Nitish Kumar was sworn in as Chief Minister for the 10th time, further solidifying his status as one of India’s most enduring and influential leaders. In a ceremony attended by top national figures, he also inducted 26 ministers into his new cabinet, including one Muslim minister and three women, reinforcing his focus on social representation and coalition balance.

A Record-Breaking 10th Term of Nitish Kumar

Nitish Kumar’s return to the Chief Minister’s chair marks yet another milestone in his long and strategic political journey. His leadership once again reflects the confidence placed in him by the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), as well as his continued relevance across Bihar’s complex social and political landscape.

The swearing-in ceremony highlighted:

• Strong NDA support
• Representation from multiple alliance partners
• A cabinet designed to balance caste, community, and regional interests

What Nitish Kumar Said After Taking Oath

Shortly after assuming office, Nitish Kumar expressed heartfelt gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, thanking him for the support and reaffirming his commitment to work for Bihar’s development.

His message emphasised:

• Stability
• Cooperative governance
• Development-oriented leadership

This sentiment resonated strongly with his base and coalition partners, signaling a continued alignment between Patna and the Centre.

Why Nitish Kumar Remains Indispensable in Bihar

Political analysts frequently describe Nitish Kumar as “Nirantar Nitish” or “Sushasan Babu” because of his unmatched staying power and governance-focused image. Despite political shifts, alliances forming and breaking, and rising competition, he continues to remain the central pivot of Bihar politics.

Key Reasons for His Continued Dominance:

1. No Strong Alternative Leader

Neither the opposition nor his own allies have managed to present a figure capable of replacing his administrative experience, statewide acceptance, and grassroots credibility.

2. The Middle-Path Governance Model

Nitish Kumar is known for choosing moderation over polarization. His policies tend to appeal to:

• Extremely Backward Classes (EBCs)
• Mahadalits
• Women voters
• Rural beneficiaries

His ability to maintain this broad coalition keeps him politically secure.

3. Reputation for “Sushasan” (Good Governance)

His image as a leader focused on:

• Infrastructure
• Law and order
• Social welfare
• Education and healthcare

continues to help him retain a loyal voter base.

4. Master of Alliances

Across his career, Nitish Kumar has shown unmatched flexibility in coalition politics. Despite political criticism, his strategic decisions have ensured that he stays at the center of power.

New Cabinet: Social Representation and Coalition Harmony

The inclusion of 26 ministers reflects attempts to balance:

• Caste diversity
• Regional representation
• Coalition expectations

Highlights include:

• One Muslim minister
• Three women ministers
• Inclusion from JD(U), BJP, LJP-RV, HAM and other partners
• Focus on administrative stability

The cabinet composition signals continuity with Nitish Kumar’s long-standing governance philosophy: inclusive and balanced representation.

Challenges Ahead for the New Government

Even though Nitish Kumar enters office with a strong position, he faces several crucial challenges:

1. Employment and Youth Opportunities

Bihar’s young population demands stronger job creation, skill development, and industrial investment.

2. Crime and Law-and-Order Issues

Maintaining a safe and secure environment remains essential for governance and public trust.

3. Fiscal Management

Managing state finances, attracting investment, and expanding infrastructure will test administrative capability.

4. Social Harmony

Balancing caste equations and community expectations will be essential for ensuring long-term stability.

What This Means for Bihar’s Future

Nitish Kumar’s 10th term highlights the remarkable continuity of leadership in Bihar. His ability to remain relevant, command alliance support, and connect with diverse social groups makes him one of the most significant leaders in modern Indian politics.

For Bihar:

• Stability is expected to continue
• Development promises are likely to intensify
• State-Centre coordination may improve further
• Political continuity may boost investor confidence

However, real change on the ground will depend on how effectively his government addresses unemployment, healthcare, education, and infrastructure.

Conclusion

Nitish Kumar’s swearing-in ceremony for the 10th time marks not just the beginning of another term but a reaffirmation of his political dominance in Bihar. With a carefully structured cabinet, strong alliance backing, and renewed commitments to development, he remains one of the most influential leaders in India.

The coming years will determine whether this historic term becomes a turning point for Bihar’s growth and governance.