Patna: In a significant political move, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar expanded his cabinet on Wednesday, inducting seven new ministers from alliance partner BJP. The much-anticipated expansion boosts the state government’s strength and sets the stage for the upcoming assembly elections.
The swearing-in ceremony at Raj Bhawan was a simple yet momentous event, with Governor Arif Mohammad Khan administering the oath of office. Key leaders, including CM Nitish Kumar, Assembly Speaker Nand Kishore Yadav, and Deputy Chief Ministers Samrat Chaudhary and Vijay Kumar Sinha, were present to mark the occasion.
The new ministers—Sanjay Saraogi (Darbhanga Town), Jibesh Mishra (Jale), Dr. Sunil Kumar (Biharsharif), Raju Kumar Singh (Sahebganj), Krishna Kumar Mantu (Amnour), Motilal Prasad (Riga), and Vijay Mandal (Sikti)—bring fresh energy to the administration. Their selection reflects a strategic political balance, with representation from key communities across Bihar.
With this expansion, the Bihar cabinet now has 36 ministers, strengthening BJP’s presence with 21 members, while ally JD(U) holds 13. The move follows BJP President J.P. Nadda’s meeting with CM Nitish Kumar, signaling strong coordination between the coalition partners.
Dilip Jaiswal stepped down as revenue and land reforms minister in line with BJP’s ‘one person, one post’ policy, paving the way for the cabinet reshuffle. He continues to serve as the state BJP chief, ensuring party affairs remain in experienced hands.
The expansion is seen as a strategic step ahead of the elections, with the ruling alliance focusing on key voter demographics, particularly in the Mithilanchal and Simanchal regions. Political analysts believe this move will bolster BJP-JD(U) unity and enhance electoral prospects in the months ahead.
As Bihar gears up for elections, the new ministers are expected to bring fresh momentum to governance, reinforcing the state’s development agenda while solidifying the ruling alliance’s position.
