Prime Minister Narendra Modi attended the oath-taking ceremony for the expanded Bihar cabinet in Patna this week [1].
The event marks a significant consolidation of power for the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) following its electoral victory in the state. The expansion of the cabinet is intended to solidify the government's administrative reach and reward coalition partners.
Prime Minister Modi was joined by other high-ranking NDA leaders, including Amit Shah and Nitish Kumar [1]. The ceremony took place at Gandhi Maidan and Lok Bhawan in Patna [2].
A key milestone of the event was the swearing-in of Samrat Choudhary, who became the first BJP chief minister of Bihar [3]. This shift in leadership reflects a new dynamic within the state's governing coalition.
Reports on the exact number of ministers sworn in during the expansion vary between sources. One report said that 32 ministers took the oath [1], while another reported that 26 ministers were sworn in, including Nishant Kumar and Vijay Sinha [4].
The expansion follows a period of electoral success for the NDA. The ceremony served as a show of strength for the alliance, demonstrating unity among the various parties that comprise the government. Following the official proceedings, Prime Minister Modi held a roadshow in Patna to engage with the public [3].
The new cabinet is tasked with implementing the NDA's policy agenda in Bihar. The presence of senior national leadership at the swearing-in ceremony underscores the importance the central government places on the stability and performance of the Bihar administration.
“Samrat Choudhary became the first BJP chief minister of Bihar”
The appointment of Samrat Choudhary as the first BJP chief minister of Bihar signifies a shift in the internal power balance of the NDA coalition. By expanding the cabinet and ensuring a strong BJP presence at the top, the alliance is attempting to stabilize the state government and streamline the implementation of central policies at the regional level.
