In an emotional video message ahead of the upcoming Bihar Assembly elections, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar urged the people of Bihar to once again place their faith in the National Democratic Alliance (NDA). Reflecting on his long political journey and the state’s evolution under his leadership, Kumar said that before 2005, being called a “Bihari” was considered an insult, but his government worked tirelessly to transform that perception into one of pride and respect. His message, released on Saturday morning through the official X handle of the Janata Dal (United), served both as a nostalgic reflection on Bihar’s progress and a call for continuity in governance under the NDA’s leadership.
The video, coming just a day after the NDA released its election manifesto, also highlighted the alliance’s vision for Bihar’s continued growth and development. Nitish Kumar, one of India’s longest-serving chief ministers, described how his administration focused on revamping Bihar’s infrastructure, education, law and order, and social welfare, setting the foundation for a modern and progressive Bihar. His tone throughout the video was that of reassurance, continuity, and pride, as he asked citizens to once again unite behind the NDA to secure a stable government both at the state and national levels.
From Neglect to Progress: Nitish Kumar Recalls Bihar’s Transformation
Nitish Kumar began his message by recounting the state of affairs when he first assumed power in 2005. At that time, Bihar was struggling with deep-rooted poverty, crumbling infrastructure, and an image crisis. “In whatever circumstances we inherited Bihar, we managed it and worked for its development,” Kumar said, recalling how his government focused on rebuilding the administrative machinery and restoring public trust in governance.
He stressed that during his early years as chief minister, he was determined to erase the stigma attached to being from Bihar. “Previously, being called a Bihari was an insult, but now it is a matter of honour,” he declared. According to him, the transformation was not only visible in infrastructure and governance but also in the confidence of Bihar’s people, who now proudly identify themselves as part of a growing and self-reliant state.
The Chief Minister credited this turnaround to the collective efforts of the state government, with strong support from the NDA at the center. He said the partnership between his government and Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership had led to significant progress in various sectors — from roads and electricity to education and women’s empowerment. Kumar emphasized that the state’s progress was part of a broader national vision driven by the NDA’s commitment to inclusive growth.
Highlighting key milestones from his tenure, Kumar pointed out improvements in law and order, the expansion of rural road networks, and the increase in school enrollment rates, especially for girls. Under his leadership, programs like the Mukhyamantri Balika Cycle Yojana and reservations for women in local bodies were introduced, which played a vital role in reshaping Bihar’s social fabric. His narrative framed these achievements as the foundation for Bihar’s next stage of growth — one that he promised would continue if voters backed the NDA once again.
Kumar’s message also came with a plea for unity, urging people to look beyond caste and religious divides. He reminded citizens that his government’s policies were designed for everyone — Hindus, Muslims, and all castes alike. “I have not done anything for my own family. My entire Bihar is my family,” he said, underlining his long-standing political stance of prioritizing public welfare over personal or familial gain.
The chief minister’s remarks carried a clear campaign undertone, projecting him as a leader who has not only governed effectively but also given Bihar a new identity. By framing his political journey as synonymous with Bihar’s progress, he sought to reinforce his image as a steady, development-oriented leader amidst the political volatility that often characterizes the state.
The Road Ahead: NDA’s Vision and Bihar’s Political Battleground
Nitish Kumar’s appeal came just a day after the NDA unveiled its manifesto for Bihar, outlining promises focused on economic development, agricultural reforms, employment generation, and social justice. In his message, Kumar aligned his own achievements with the broader goals of the NDA, portraying the alliance as a stable and progressive coalition capable of sustaining Bihar’s growth trajectory.
He praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, noting that Bihar had benefited immensely from the Centre’s support under the NDA government. From infrastructural projects to welfare schemes, he said, Modi’s administration had helped accelerate Bihar’s development and integrate it more deeply into India’s growth story. Kumar emphasized that a strong NDA government in both Patna and Delhi was essential for the state’s continued progress.
Addressing voters directly, he appealed for their support in electing NDA candidates across the state. “You have given us four chances… Please once again elect our candidate and form an NDA government. This will ensure an NDA government in Bihar and at the center. Bihar is continuously developing, and more development will follow,” he said, framing the upcoming elections as a choice between progress and uncertainty.
The Bihar Assembly elections will be held in two phases — on November 6 and November 11 — with counting scheduled for November 14. The ruling NDA, led by Nitish Kumar, faces a strong challenge from the Mahagathbandhan (Grand Alliance), which includes the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), Congress, Left parties, and the Vikasheel Insaan Party (VIP) of Mukesh Sahani. On the other hand, the NDA coalition comprises the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), JD(U), Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas), Hindustani Awam Morcha (Secular), and Rashtriya Lok Morcha.
The political landscape in Bihar remains competitive, with new entrants like Prashant Kishor’s Jan Suraaj also aiming to make their presence felt. Kishor, a former political strategist who once worked closely with Nitish Kumar, is expected to draw some attention, particularly among younger and first-time voters. However, the main contest continues to be between the NDA and the Mahagathbandhan, both seeking to capitalize on their political legacies and social coalitions.
Kumar’s message was as much about his personal credibility as it was about the NDA’s governance model. He portrayed himself as a leader who not only stabilized Bihar after decades of misrule but also laid the groundwork for sustained development. By invoking the emotional narrative of transforming “Bihari” from an insult into a badge of honour, he tapped into a deep sense of regional pride that could resonate strongly with voters.
Observers note that Nitish Kumar’s campaign this time reflects a delicate balance — between showcasing his administrative track record and aligning closely with Prime Minister Modi’s popularity. His emphasis on inclusive development and social harmony also appears to be aimed at countering the opposition’s attempts to mobilize voters along caste or community lines.
With just days remaining before Bihar heads to the polls, Nitish Kumar’s latest appeal underscores both his political resilience and his continuing effort to define the state’s identity through the lens of progress and pride. Whether voters respond to his call for continuity or seek change remains to be seen, but his message marks one of the most defining moments in Bihar’s ongoing electoral narrative — one that links the story of a leader’s journey with the story of an entire state.
