Bihar witnessed a significant political event as JD(U) chief Nitish Kumar was sworn in as Chief Minister for a record 10th time, marking another chapter in the state's political landscape. The ceremony at Patna's Gandhi Maidan saw 26 ministers from various NDA allies taking oath, with senior BJP leaders Samrat Choudhary and Vijay Sinha reinstated as Deputy Chief Ministers.
New Faces in Nitish Kumar's Ministry
The newly formed ministry presents a blend of experienced politicians and fresh talent, with 12 new faces joining the government. While all JD(U) inductees had served in the previous administration, the BJP introduced six new ministers, bringing diverse backgrounds and expertise to the cabinet.
Among the notable newcomers are sons of prominent political figures, reflecting the continuing influence of political dynasties in Bihar politics. The cabinet also features an Olympic athlete and several first-time legislators, creating a balanced mix of youth and experience.
Prominent Dynasts and Their Political Legacy
Santosh Kumar Suman, son of HAM(S) founder and Union minister Jitan Ram Manjhi, continues his uninterrupted ministerial run since 2020. The 50-year-old MLC has previously handled important portfolios including Minor Irrigation, SC/ST Welfare, and IT departments. Although he didn't contest the recent Assembly elections, his political influence remains strong through family connections.
In a surprising move, the Rashtriya Lok Morcha nominated Deepak Prakash, the 36-year-old son of party chief Upendra Kushwaha. A computer science graduate and former software engineer, Prakash represents the emerging second generation leadership among Kurmi-Koeri communities. His mother Snehlata Kushwaha's recent electoral victory from Sasaram seat further strengthens the family's political standing.
From Shooting Range to Political Arena
One of the most inspiring additions to the cabinet is Shreyasi Singh, the 34-year-old Commonwealth Games gold medalist and Olympian. Daughter of former Union minister late Dijvijay Singh, Shreyasi brings a unique perspective to governance. Her achievements include a silver medal at the 2014 Commonwealth Games, gold at the 2018 CWG, and representing India at the 2016 Rio Olympics. The Arjuna Award recipient has served as a two-time BJP MLA from Jamui constituency.
Experienced Leaders and First-Time Legislators
The cabinet also features Ram Kripal Yadav, a 64-year-old BJP leader with extensive political experience. Despite being a first-timer in the Bihar Cabinet, Yadav has served as Union Minister of State for Rural Development, multiple-term MP, Patna deputy mayor, and MLC. His recent victory from Danapur seat against RJD strongman Ritlal Yadav demonstrates his continued political relevance.
Dilip Kumar Jaiswal, the 61-year-old three-time MLC and current state BJP chief, brings over two decades of political experience. Known for his negotiation skills demonstrated during NDA seat-sharing talks, Jaiswal has previously served as Revenue and Land Reforms Minister before resigning under the BJP's "one man, one post" policy.
Among first-time MLAs, Rama Nishad brings her business background and community work experience to the cabinet. Married to former Muzaffarpur MP Ajay Nishad and daughter-in-law of ex-Union minister Captain Jaynarayan Nishad, she has been actively involved in promoting women's literacy and youth skill development.
Sanjay Kumar Paswan, the 52-year-old LJP(RV) principal general secretary and first-time MLA from Bakhri seat, represents his party's expanding influence beyond traditional strongholds. Similarly, Sanjay Kumar Singh, another first-time MLA from Mahua seat, is seen as a key strategist in LJP(RV)'s expansion plans.
Regional Representation and Community Influence
The ministry demonstrates careful attention to regional balance and community representation. Narayan Prasad, the 67-year-old BJP leader from West Champaran, brings significant influence among the Teli (Sahu) community. Having begun his political journey in the mid-1980s, Prasad has retained the Nautan Assembly seat since 2015 and previously served as state tourism minister.
Pramod Kumar Chandravansi, a BJP state vice-president and MLC, represents the party's organizational strength. Associated with the BJP since his student days and former ABVP state minister of undivided Bihar, Chandravansi receives his first ministerial appointment in this government.
The inclusion of Sanjay Singh 'Tiger', brother of two-time Shahpur MLA Dharampal Singh, strengthens the BJP's presence in Bhojpur region. Known for his strong local following, Tiger makes a comeback to the Assembly by winning from Arrah seat after previous electoral setbacks.
This diverse ministerial team faces the challenge of addressing Bihar's development needs while maintaining political stability. With experienced administrators working alongside new talent, the government aims to combine fresh ideas with proven governance methods to drive the state's progress forward.
