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Nitish Kumar: A Record Tenure in Bihar Politics

The Political Journey of Nitish Kumar

Nitish Kumar: A Record Tenure in Bihar Politics

  • 06 Dec, 2025
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Nitish Kumar's Tenure Recognized by World Book of Records

The World Book of Records, London, has formally acknowledged Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar for taking oath as chief minister on ten separate occasions. This recognition highlights a political journey marked by continuity, shifting alliances, and sustained public trust over more than two decades.

A Rare Political Milestone

The citation describes this achievement as an extraordinary distinction within India’s democratic landscape. Nitish Kumar first assumed office in 2000, although his tenure was short-lived, ending within a week after he failed to prove a majority.

Shifts in Alliances and Electoral Mandates

Since 2005, he has largely remained at the helm, except for a brief period when leadership passed to Jitan Ram Manjhi. Kumar’s repeated returns to office reflect his strategic navigation of Bihar’s political alliances. He took oath for the third time following a strong mandate in 2010, and again in 2015 after reclaiming leadership from Manjhi.

His partnerships have alternated between the NDA and the Mahagathbandhan, shaped by electoral outcomes and policy disagreements.

Multiple Resignations and Swift Comebacks

A notable phase in his career followed his 2017 resignation over corruption allegations against his then deputy. Remarkably, he returned to office within 24 hours with BJP support. In 2022, he left the NDA due to political and administrative differences, rejoining the RJD–Congress alliance, and was sworn in for the eighth time.

Leading up to the 2024 Lok Sabha polls, he returned to the NDA and later took oath for the ninth and tenth time following a sweeping assembly victory.

Exam-Oriented Facts

  • Nitish Kumar has taken oath as Bihar chief minister ten times, a recognized global record.
  • His first tenure in 2000 lasted only seven days due to a lack of majority.
  • Bihar’s 2024–25 political shifts saw him move between the NDA and Mahagathbandhan.
  • The World Book of Records plans to include his achievement in its official listings.

Symbolism of the Recognition for Bihar

Party leaders describe this honor as a testament to stable governance, consistent public support, and Bihar’s resilient democratic processes. The acknowledgment underscores the enduring political influence of Nitish Kumar and his role in shaping the state’s administrative trajectory across ten terms.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is the significance of Nitish Kumar's recognition by the World Book of Records?
Answer: This recognition highlights his unique political journey in Bihar, marking him as a significant figure in India's democratic landscape due to his ten oaths as chief minister.

Q2. How long did Nitish Kumar's first tenure last?
Answer: Nitish Kumar's first tenure in 2000 lasted only seven days, as he was unable to prove a majority in the assembly.

Q3. What political alliances has Nitish Kumar been part of?
Answer: Nitish Kumar has alternated between the NDA and the Mahagathbandhan, reflecting strategic shifts based on electoral outcomes and policy disagreements.

Q4. How many times has Nitish Kumar taken oath as Chief Minister?
Answer: Nitish Kumar has taken oath as Bihar Chief Minister ten times, setting a global record acknowledged by the World Book of Records.

Q5. What does this recognition symbolize for Bihar?
Answer: The recognition symbolizes stable governance, public trust, and the resilience of Bihar's democratic processes, emphasizing Kumar's lasting political influence.

UPSC Practice MCQs

Question 1: How many times has Nitish Kumar taken oath as Chief Minister of Bihar?
A) Eight times
B) Ten times
C) Six times
D) Five times
Correct Answer: B

Question 2: What significant event occurred during Kumar's first term in 2000?
A) He resigned immediately
B) He served for a month
C) He was unable to prove majority
D) He formed a coalition
Correct Answer: C

Question 3: Which two political alliances has Nitish Kumar been associated with during his tenure?
A) BJP and Congress
B) NDA and Mahagathbandhan
C) RJD and NDA
D) Congress and RJD
Correct Answer: B

Question 4: When did Kumar resign due to corruption allegations against his deputy?
A) 2015
B) 2017
C) 2018
D) 2016
Correct Answer: B

Question 5: What is the World Book of Records planning to do with Nitish Kumar's achievement?
A) Ignore it
B) Include it in their listings
C) Publish a book
D) Hold a ceremony
Correct Answer: B

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