PM Modi joins Nitish Kumar’s 10th oath ceremony as NDA forms government; find out what this means for Bihar’s political future.

In a historic and politically charged morning at Patna’s iconic Gandhi Maidan, Nitish Kumar was sworn in as the Chief Minister of Bihar for a record 10th term, marking a major milestone in state politics. The event, held after the sweeping NDA Victory in the 2025 Bihar Assembly Elections, also saw the induction of a 26-member council of ministers, bringing leaders from the BJP, JD(U), HAM, LJP(RA), and RLS into the new government.

The Oath Taking Ceremony saw massive public turnout, unprecedented security, and a visible display of political strength by the National Democratic Alliance (NDA). Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union ministers, and several CMs of NDA-ruled states were present, lending national significance to the moment.

PM Modi’s Unusual Gesture and the Political Subtext

One moment that stood out—and quickly became a talking point—was PM Modi greeting the crowd by waving a towel in the traditional Bayari style, sparking applause and slogans across the ground. Yet, keen observers noted a subtle but visible tension on the PM’s face as he stepped onto the stage.

Political experts suggest this expression spoke volumes. Despite the celebratory atmosphere, there appeared to be dissatisfaction at the top regarding the composition and talent distribution in Nitish’s new cabinet.

A Cabinet of 26: Wide Representation, But Lacking New Energy?

The new Bihar cabinet features:

• 14 BJP ministers
• 8 JD(U) ministers
• 2 LJP(RA) ministers
• 1 minister from HAM (Santosh Suman)
• 1 minister from RLS (Deepak Prakash Kushwaha)

While Nitish Kumar ensured caste balance—a political necessity in Bihar—the cabinet largely mirrors the previous one, with many old faces returning. Analysts argue this misses the moment for fresh leadership, especially after the NDA Leads translated into an overwhelming mandate.

Some describe the cabinet distribution as “prasad-style”—carefully divided among dominant castes to maintain stability rather than push bold reforms.

Talent Deficit & PM Modi’s Expected Displeasure

Sources close to the BJP suggest that PM Modi expected a performance-driven cabinet aligned with his governance philosophy—similar to how he handpicked ministers like Nirmala Sitharaman, S. Jaishankar, and Ashwini Vaishnaw based on competence and domain expertise.

But the Bihar cabinet, dominated by veterans and power brokers, seems to lack the technocratic talent needed for Bihar’s transformation.

With Modi promising:

• agro-processing industries
• improved tourism infrastructure
• better education and healthcare
• jobs for youth
• projects for women’s welfare

…the question remains: who will deliver these promises?

Political commentators suggest that both Deputy CMs, too, bring limited reformist credentials.

“Jungle Raj” Narrative Ends — Now Performance Counts

The BJP-JDU alliance has long politicized the threat of a return to Jungle Raj under RJD. But analysts point out that this rhetoric delivered its final electoral benefit in 2025. With the Mahagathbandhan Collapse, and Tejashwi Yadav now struggling to hold the opposition together amid “vote chori” and EVM allegations, the NDA can no longer rely on fear-based narratives.

The 2025 mandate is for performance, not propaganda.

Will Nitish Kumar Last Five Years?

This question is quietly echoing through Patna’s political circles.

Nitish Kumar remains a seasoned and respected leader, but:

• his health has visibly declined
• governance fatigue was apparent during the elections
• several NDA insiders believe he may not complete a full five-year term

Some speculate that the BJP may eventually assert fuller control, especially if key ministers fail to deliver in the first 3–4 months—a timeline insiders say PM Modi often uses for performance review.

If results lag, major cabinet reshuffles—like Modi’s famous Gujarat-style resets—are expected.

NDA’s New Bihar: Promise vs Performance

Despite the triumphant optics, the political undercurrent reveals:

• a tired JD(U) re-presenting old faces
• a confident BJP adding new names
• Prashant Kishor and Jan Suraaj emerging as interesting players for the future
• a weakened but vocal opposition crying “vote chori” and attacking EVM credibility

One thing is certain: Bihar’s political landscape is on the brink of major change, and the pressure on Nitish Kumar’s 10th government to deliver is unprecedented.

As PM Modi himself said after the NDA’s landslide win: “Huge majority means huge responsibility.”

The coming months will reveal whether Bihar gets the transformation its voters were promised—or whether old political habits overpower new aspirations.