Nitish Kumar Expands Cabinet with Nine New Faces, BJP Bets on Youth and Women Leaders
Digital Desk
Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Thursday inducted nine new ministers into his revamped Bihar cabinet, signaling a strategic reshuffle aimed at consolidating political influence and enhancing governance. The new cabinet includes prominent leaders from various communities, youth, and women, reflecting a careful balance of caste, gender, and organizational representation.
Among the notable inductees is Ram Kripal Yadav, whose inclusion strengthens NDA’s reach into the traditional RJD Yadav vote bank. A five-time Lok Sabha MP and former Union Minister, he recently won the Danapur assembly seat by 29,000 votes, marking his first ministerial role in Bihar.
Shreyasi Singh, international shooter and Jamui MLA, also joins the cabinet, bringing a focus on women and youth leadership. The daughter of former Union Minister Digvijay Singh, she is expected to contribute to portfolios like Sports, Youth Affairs, or Women Development.
Lakhendra Raushan Paswan, Rama Nishad, Arun Shankar Prasad, Sanjay Singh Tiger, Sanjay Kumar Singh, Sanjay Paswan, and Deepak Prakash are the other inductees. Deepak Prakash, son of Upendra Kushwaha, has been appointed despite not contesting elections, strengthening NDA’s presence among the Kushwaha community.
The expansion underscores the NDA’s strategic approach: consolidating caste-based support, rewarding electoral victories, and promoting young and capable leaders. Rama Nishad emerges as a voice for the Nishad community, while Sanjay Paswan strengthens Dalit representation. The cabinet also emphasizes continuity, experience, and grassroots connection.
Political analysts note that this reshuffle is a calculated move to stabilize Nitish Kumar’s government, address representation concerns, and prepare the state for developmental and electoral challenges in the next five years. The cabinet now blends veteran politicians, emerging leaders, and socially representative figures to navigate Bihar’s complex political landscape.
The new ministers are expected to assume office immediately, with portfolios likely announced in the coming days, completing the state government’s strategic realignment.
