/imageofficial swearing-in image from a top news site,
Nitish Kumar created political history on November 20, 2025, by taking oath as Bihar’s Chief Minister for a record 10th time. The NDA, under his leadership and the Bharatiya Janata Party’s support, secured a landslide victory in the state assembly elections, winning 202 out of 243 seats. The ceremony at Gandhi Maidan in Patna was attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, state BJP leaders, and thousands of supporters.
Oath Ceremony Highlights
Nitish Kumar, JD(U) leader and seasoned strategist, was sworn in along with 26 other cabinet ministers, including BJP’s Samrat Chaudhary and Vijay Kumar Sinha as Deputy Chief Ministers. The event drew prominent national leaders. PM Modi lauded Kumar’s experience and Sagacity, calling him “a proven and visionary administrator.” Live visuals showed cheering crowds, saffron flags, and strict security. The oath itself was administered by Bihar Governor Arif Mohammed Khan.
NDA Sweeps Bihar Elections: Background and Numbers
The NDA’s win was overwhelming—202 seats, with BJP the single largest party (89 seats), JD(U) taking 85, LJP(RV) with 19, and smaller allies 10. In contrast, the Mahagathbandhan alliance (RJD, Congress, Left) could not cross 35 seats. The key factors were Nitish’s social engineering among OBC/EBC/Mahadalits, Modi’s popularity, and record 67% voter turnout. Many commentators called it a “wave election.”
A Cabinet Of Veterans and New Faces
The new cabinet showcased both continuity and change: 10 fresh faces were given portfolios, while 19 sitting ministers were dropped. Veteran leaders like Ram Kripal Yadav re-entered government; the LJP, HAM, and RLM were given representation. The BJP bagged 14 berths, JDU had 8, LJP(RV) secured 2, and 1 each for HAM and RLM. Several women and underrepresented caste leaders were included, reflecting the NDA’s focus on social balance.
Nitish Kumar’s Legacy: 20 Years Of Bihar Politics
With nearly two decades in office since 2005, Nitish has shaped Bihar’s transformation narrative—improving roads, education, and health while battling longstanding perceptions of “jungle raj.” His repeated comebacks, switches between alliances, and mastery of coalition math have earned him the “Kingmaker” title in Indian politics. The opposition criticizes his political flexibility, but his popularity in rural Bihar and among women voters remains strong.
National Reaction and Political Signals
PM Modi signaled full support, marking Bihar as a BJP stronghold and a template for NDA’s future coalition structure. Opposition leaders, including Tejashwi Yadav, acknowledged defeat but highlighted Nitish’s political U-turns. Media analysis centered on NDA’s dominant social coalition, the opposition’s lack of strategy, and how Bihar’s results impact 2026 general election narratives.
What Lies Ahead: Governance and Coalitional Tensions
Nitish faces expected friction between BJP and JD(U) over policy leadership, ethnic/caste representation, and distribution of government resources. Pressure to deliver on economic growth, job creation, and social justice remains. Many will watch how the government balances rural development with urban aspirations, and if opposition inroads can be rebuilt in the state assembly.
Summary
Nitish Kumar’s record 10th swearing-in as Bihar Chief Minister, backed by NDA’s massive win, underscores both the durability and adaptability of his leadership. The new cabinet and continued BJP partnership will shape the next phase of Bihar’s development—with national ramifications as India heads towards the 2026 election season. The mandate is clear; the next test is effective governance and coalition management.
For more photographs, cabinet member details, and full election data, visit the official government press releases and the Election Commission’s site.
