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Patna, November 20 In a grand ceremony at Patna’s historic Gandhi Maidan, seasoned politician Nitish Kumar was sworn in as Chief Minister of Bihar for a record tenth time, marking a milestone in the state’s political history. The event also saw the induction of a full council of ministers under the banner of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), signalling the start of a fresh chapter in the state’s governance.
Kumar’s re-appointment comes on the heels of the NDA’s emphatic victory in the Assembly elections, affirming his hold over Bihar’s political landscape and underscoring his reputation as a steady hand in the state’s complex coalition politics. With his tenth oath, he becomes Bihar’s longest-serving chief minister, showcasing a rare continuity in a region known for frequent political shifts.
Joining Kumar at the ceremony were two prominent figures: Samrat Choudhary and Vijay Kumar Sinha from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), who were sworn in as Deputy Chief Ministers. Their presence reinforces the power-sharing dynamic within the coalition and sheds light on the strategic balance the NDA is seeking in Bihar, especially across caste and regional lines.
The new cabinet, composed of members from the BJP, Kumar’s own Janata Dal (United) [JD(U)] and allied smaller parties, reflects a carefully crafted formula. The distribution: key portfolios and representation across communities, signals the alliance’s aim to both maintain
stability and broaden its social base. Analysts believe the composition will be closely watched for how effectively it translates into governance.
Senior national leaders, including the Prime Minister and the Home Minister, attended the swearing-in, lending the event national significance. Their presence underscores the importance the central leadership attaches to Bihar’s path of development and the state’s role in the wider political landscape.
As the new government takes charge, challenges loom large. Bihar faces demands on multiple fronts: creating jobs, improving healthcare and education, managing infrastructure deficits and addressing persistent social inequalities. The challenge for Kumar and his team will be to move from political spectacle to delivery of results, especially when the public mood is geared for action.
In his brief address, Kumar acknowledged the trust placed by voters and reaffirmed his commitment to “good governance, inclusive growth and swift action.” His message resonates in a state where aspirations are rising and the electorate expects more than just promises. The next few months will test whether this decade-old leader can spark fresh momentum and meet the high expectations of Bihar’s citizens. With the machinery of government now set in motion, all eyes will be on how the new cabinet performs. For Kumar, the task is both familiar and formidable: translating electoral victory into tangible progress, while maintaining the coalition equilibrium that powered his return.
