Nitish Kumar is set to take oath as Bihar chief minister for an unprecedented10th time on Thursday, marking yet another milestone in his long and turbulent political career. The ceremony will take place at the historic Gandhi Maidan, a return to the grand venue where he was previously sworn in during 2005, 2010 and 2015. This comeback to a public oath-taking venue is being seen as a symbolic assertion of renewed political strength after the JD(U)-BJP-led NDA secured its second-best performance in the state.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union ministers Amit Shah and Rajnath Singh, several chief ministers, and key allies including N. Chandrababu Naidu and Eknath Shinde are expected to attend the swearing-in ceremony.

NDA’s strong mandate restores Nitish Kumar’s position

Nitish Kumar, who had been perceived as the weakest link in the NDA alliance ahead of the election, has emerged significantly stronger after the JD(U)’s tally rose from 43 seats in 2020 to 85 seats. The NDA, powered by the BJP’s performance as the single-largest party with 89 seats, comfortably crossed the majority mark.

In a meeting attended by MLAs of all NDA constituents—JD(U), BJP, LJP (RV), HAM (S) and RLM—Nitish was unanimously elected as the leader of the NDA legislature party before formally staking claim to form the government.

The renewed show of strength also underscores a shift from 2020, when PM Modi chose not to attend Nitish’s swearing-in after the coalition barely scraped through with a reduced JD(U) tally. The heavy presence of BJP’s top brass on Thursday signals a strategic reset and a strong endorsement of Nitish’s leadership.

Around 20 ministers expected; deputy CMs to retain positions

Sources indicate that around 20 ministers may be sworn in on Thursday, although the cabinet can hold up to 36 members. BJP leaders Samrat Choudhary and Vijay Kumar Sinha—representing an OBC and upper-caste alliance—are likely to retain their posts as deputy chief ministers.

This backward-upper caste combination was central to the BJP’s candidate selection and campaign messaging, and the party appears keen to maintain continuity.

Within the BJP, outgoing ministers Nitin Nabin, Mangal Pandey, Nitish Mishra and Sanjay Saraogi may find a place again. JD(U)’s senior leaders Vijay Kumar Chaudhary, Lacy Singh and Shravan Kumar are also expected to return to the cabinet.

Allies from LJP (RV), HAM (S) and RLM are likely to receive representation as well.

Key portfolio decisions expected after intense NDA deliberations

Portfolio negotiations between JD(U) and BJP continued late into Wednesday night after Amit Shah reached Patna. Discussions revolved around retaining the existing balance of power, especially over high-profile departments.

Though some JD(U) leaders suggested seeking the Speaker’s post—currently with an NDA ally—the BJP reportedly conveyed its interest in the home department, traditionally held by Nitish Kumar. Sources indicate that despite these differences, the status quo is likely to be maintained in key positions to ensure a smooth start for the new government.

Return to Gandhi Maidan signals renewed political confidence

Nitish Kumar’s decision to return to Gandhi Maidan—after shifting to Raj Bhawan for his previous oath-takings during a period of political instability—has been widely interpreted as a declaration of confidence. A large turnout of supporters is expected at the venue, reminiscent of his early, high-energy terms as chief minister.

The event is also being seen as politically significant for the BJP, whose top leaders are set to display strong support for a stable NDA government in Bihar.

Outlook: NDA vows to push development agenda

Addressing party members after being elected BJP legislature party leader, Samrat Choudhary said that the new government would work “in overdrive” to fulfil the development vision of Narendra Modi and Nitish Kumar.

With a comfortable mandate and renewed cohesion within the alliance, the NDA government is expected to focus on infrastructure, employment creation, law and order, and welfare schemes in its next term.