Nitish Kumar's Unstoppable Rise: 10th Term as Bihar CM on the Horizon

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{ "title": "Nitish Kumar's Unstoppable Rise: 10th Term as Bihar CM on the Horizon", "article": Bihar's Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has cemented his position as the state's most influential leader, securing his party, the Janata Dal (United), a landslide victory in the recent assembly elections. For the past two decades, Kumar's leadership has been a defining factor in Bihar's politics, with his party consistently forming governments with the support of various castes and communities. Kumar's winning formula has been his ability to connect with women voters, particularly those from the so-called extreme backward classes (EBCs). His government's welfare schemes, including cash handouts and job guarantees, have been instrumental in securing their support. The higher turnout of women voters in the recent elections (71.6% compared to 62.8% of men) is a testament to Kumar's enduring appeal. Kumar's leadership has been marked by his focus on infrastructure development and social welfare programs. His government has upgraded roads, power, and land law and order, making a significant impact on the state's development. His Jeevika self-help group for rural women has empowered them to become economically self-reliant. Kumar's relationship with his allies has been a key factor in his success. Despite switching parties multiple times, he has managed to maintain his position as the chief minister. Analysts attribute this to his ability to adapt to changing circumstances and his willingness to work with various partners. As Kumar embarks on what may be the final stretch of his storied career, his party's strong performance in the assembly polls is being seen as a "Thank you, Nitish" vote by the people of Bihar. Many voters say they wanted Kumar to be CM again because this could be his last election. The JD(U) now faces the challenge of identifying a successor to Kumar, but its strong performance in this election means it can do so from a position of strength. Kumar's legacy is one of good governance and inclusive development. He has transformed Bihar from a state where the "word Bihari was an insult" to one of "pride." His ability to connect with voters across castes and communities has made him an indispensable figure in Bihar politics. As he looks to the future, Kumar's commitment to his vision for Bihar remains unwavering. In the words of analyst Prof. NK Choudhary, "If women have emerged as a big constituency favouring him despite the caste divide, it is a result of his government's consistent plans and policies since 2005." Kumar's leadership has been a defining factor in Bihar's politics, and his legacy will continue to shape the state's development for years to come.