By opting for new faces, BJP signals its focus on developing a new breed of leadership in state

New Delhi: Nitish Kumar was on Monday sworn in as chief minister of Bihar for the seventh time at a ceremony in Patna Raj Bhavan. Fourteen other ministers were also administered the oath of office by the governor. BJP named two deputy chief ministers in Tarkishore Prasad and Renu Devi, a first for the state.

Union home minister Amit Shah, BJP president JP Nadda and other senior leaders were also present on the occasion.

With seven new ministers in Kumar’s team and five of them from BJP, the national party has clearly indicated that it was focusing on developing a new breed of leadership. Barring Devi and Mangal Pandey, the other five ministers from BJP have never held any ministerial post.


BJP sources told ET that selection of two deputy CMs was a strategic move. By opting for Prasad, BJP wants to strengthen its support base in the Seemanchal region. Like Prasad, Devi too fits in BJP’s future plan. Right from PM Modi to CM Kumar, all had spoken highly of the women voters.

Sources told ET that more names would be included in the next expansion. Bihar can have a total of 36 ministers. No Muslim minister was included on Monday but JDU sources said there would definitely be a representation from the community in the next expansion.

A number of senior leaders from BJP, such as Prem Kumar, Nand Kishor Yadav, Vjay Kumar Sinha, Vinod Narayan Jha, who were part of the previous Nitish Cabinet, haven’t found a place in the new team. Sources said some of the old faces could be accommodated in the next expansion. It is also being speculated that Nand Kishor Yadav may be the new Speaker of the Bihar assembly. Although nothing has been finalised yet.

It is also being speculated that Nand Kishor Yadav of BJP may be the new Speaker.