Patna: Nitish Kumar was sworn in as Bihar’s chief minister for a record 10th term, forming a 26-member cabinet in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and a large gathering in Patna. But even as women voters played a decisive role in the NDA’s sweeping victory, only three women—Leshi Singh, Rama Nishad and Shreyasi Singh—found a place in the new council of ministers, amounting to just 11% representation.
Analysts note the contrast between Bihar’s high female political participation and their limited presence in executive leadership. The NDA secured 202 seats, boosted significantly by women voters who benefitted from Nitish Kumar’s welfare schemes, particularly the Jivika programme. This election also saw record overall turnout, with women casting votes at a higher rate than men.
Leshi Singh, a six-time MLA from Dhamdaha, has retained her position in the cabinet after defeating RJD’s Santosh Kumar by 55,159 votes. A trusted figure in Janata Dal (United), she previously served as Minister of Food and Consumer Protection.
Shreyasi Singh, inducted from the BJP quota, becomes a minister for the first time. The former international shooter won her seat in Jamui by 54,498 votes, defeating RJD’s Mohammad Shamshad Alam.
Rama Nishad, who emerged victorious from the Aurai constituency by a margin of 54,000 votes, has also been appointed to the cabinet. She defeated VIP’s Bhogendra Sahni. Her inclusion carries political weight given her long public career and the strong voter support for women candidates in this election.
