32 leaders from the ruling NDA were sworn in as Bihar ministers during a grand ceremony
Patna
The cabinet led by Samrat Chaudhary witnessed a major expansion on Thursday as 32 leaders from the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) were sworn in as ministers during a grand ceremony held at Gandhi Maidan.
The large-scale swearing-in ceremony turned into a major political event in Bihar, drawing the presence of several senior NDA leaders and thousands of party supporters. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, and former Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar attended the event, highlighting the political significance of the cabinet reshuffle.
One of the key highlights of the expansion was the inclusion of several fresh faces in the state government. The (Janata Dal (United) inducted three new leaders into the cabinet — Nishant Kumar, Bulo Mandal, and Shweta Gupta.
Political observers believe the induction of Shweta Gupta reflects an effort by the party to strengthen women’s representation within the government and broaden its social outreach.
The Bharatiya Janata Party also introduced four first-time ministers — Mithilesh Tiwari, Ramchandra Paswan, Nand Kishore Ram, and Engineer Shailendra. Through these appointments, the BJP appears to have focused on expanding its representation among different social and regional groups.
The final distribution of ministerial positions reflected careful alliance management within the NDA. Of the 32 ministers inducted, 15 belong to the BJP quota, while 13 ministers represent JD(U). Two positions were allotted to the Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas), one to the Hindustani Awam Morcha (Secular), and one to the Rashtriya Lok Morcha led by Upendra Kushwaha.
Political analysts view the cabinet expansion as a strategic move aimed at maintaining unity among NDA allies while preparing for upcoming electoral battles in Bihar and at the national level. The inclusion of both experienced leaders and newcomers is also being seen as an attempt to strengthen the alliance’s social and political base across the state. The reconstruction of the temple played a key role in restoring national confidence and cultural self-respect.
According to the Chief Minister, the shrine has remained an enduring example of India’s ability to preserve its traditions despite centuries of challenges. He added that the Somnath temple continues to inspire generations through its historical and spiritual importance.
The Chief Minister further said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the country is progressing with a vision that combines development with preservation of heritage. He emphasised that economic growth and cultural revival are being pursued simultaneously to strengthen India’s identity on the global stage
The ‘Somnath Swabhiman Yatra’ is expected to continue in multiple phases, enabling devotees from different parts of Madhya Pradesh to undertake the spiritual journey to one of Hinduism’s most revered pilgrimage centres.