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Business News›Magazines›Panache›Panache People 101›Nitish Kumar
    Nitish Kumar

    Nitish Kumar

    Chief Minister, Bihar
    Birth DetailsMarch 01, 1951 | Bakhtiarpur, Patna, Bihar
    NationalityIndian
    LeaguePolitician
    EducationB.Sc. (Engineering), Bihar College of Engineering, Patna
    Nitish Kumar’s Journey so far ...
    • After completing his education, Nitish Kumar worked for the Bihar State Electricity Board for a while
    • In 1974, he joined the Janata Party
    • In 1985, he was elected to the Bihar Legislative Assembly. During this time, he served as a member of the Committee on Petitions and the Committee on Public Undertakings in the Bihar Legislative Assembly
    • He was appointed as the president of the Yuva Lok Dal in Bihar in 1987
    • In 1989, he became the secretary-general of the Janata Dal in 1989
    • In 1989, he was also elected to the Lok Sabha for the first time and made the Union Minister of State for Agriculture and Co-operation
    • He became the general secretary of Janata Dal in 1991
    • In 1991, he was re-elected to the Lok Sabha and this time, he served as a member of the Railway Convention Committee and as the chairman of the Committee on Agriculture
    • Kumar got a third term in Lok Sabha which began in 1996. In his third term, he was a member of the General Purposes Committee, Joint Committee on the Constitution, Committee on Defence and the Committee on Estimates
    • He returned for a fourth term in the Lok Sabha in 1998 and served as the Union Cabinet Minister for Railways and Union Cabinet Minister for Surface Transport (additional charge)
    • Kumar was also elected to the 13th Lok Sabha in 1999. During his fifth term, he was the Union Minister for Surface Transport and Union Minister of Agriculture
    • In 2000, Kumar was elected as the Chief Minister of Bihar for the first time. His first term lasted only for a week
    • He then became the Union Minister of Agriculture in May 2000 and the Union Minister of Railways in July 2001
    • His sixth term in the Lok Sabha began in 2004 during which he was a member of the Committee on Coal & Steel, General Purposes Committee and the Committee of Privileges
    • After the JD(U)-BJP alliance secured a majority in the assembly polls, he was re-elected as the CM of Bihar for the second time in 2005
    • In 2010, Kumar returned for a third term as the chief minister of Bihar
    • He stepped down in May 2014, owning moral responsibility for the JD(U)’s debacle in Lok Sabha polls. But he returned in February 2015. His fourth term as the CM ended in November 2015
    • His fifth term as CM began in November 2015 and continued till July 2017
    • Kumar’s sixth term as CM was from 2017 till 2020
    • He was elected for a seventh term as the CM in November 2020

    Before you go ...
    • Though in varying lengths in terms of tenure, Kumar has been elected as the chief minister of Bihar seven times. He has returned to power within days of losing it on multiple occasions
    • He is on course to become the longest-serving chief minister of Bihar, surpassing the record of Shrikrishna Singh

    Last Updated: 27/09/2021

    Nitish Kumar News

    • Jitendra Singh Gangwar, Bihar Police ADG, Headquarters, told media persons that the body had deep wounds caused by a sharp object on the chest and abdomen. An SIT has been formed to probe the murder. Bihar CM Nitish Kumar spoke to Mukesh Sahani, who was in Mumbai, over phone and assured him of a speedy probe and nabbing the culprits.
    • With BJP's preference for stability post-election and global acclaim for past performance, major shifts are unlikely to happen in this budget. Focus would remain on fiscal discipline despite regional challenges and demands from NDA allies. Expect nominal adjustments in income tax and rural subsidies, maintaining status quo."
    • Congress general secretary in-charge communications Jairam Ramesh said senior ministers in Bihar are now arguing that NITI Aayog's latest analysis vindicates their demand for special category status in the matter of Central assistance to the state.
    • Congress leader and Rajya Sabha MP P. Chidambaram has emphasized the importance of opposition parties being prepared for elections in a parliamentary democracy. This comes after Rashtriya Janata Dal Chief Lalu Yadav suggested that the Narendra Modi-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government could fall by August, leading to elections at any time.
    • The Uttar Pradesh government reshuffled several IAS officers: Chandra Vijay Singh in Ayodhya, Nitish Kumar to Dakshinanchal Vidyut Vitran Nigam Ltd, Badri Nath Singh to Sonbhadra, Nidhi Srivastav to Budaun, Divya Mittal to Deoria, Indra Mani Tripathi to Auraiya, with Neha Prakash as the new Director of Training and Employment, UP.
    • Shankar Singh, an independent candidate and former Bihar MLA, is leading in the Rupauli bypoll election against the ruling Janata Dal (United). Singh, known for being the commander of the North Bihar Liberation Army, has a slim lead of over 1700 votes over JD(U)'s Kaladhar Prasad Mandal.
    • Bihar CM's aide Ashok Choudhary criticized Lalu Prasad's family, including Rabri Devi, for attending Anant Ambani's wedding amid their criticism. Tejashwi Yadav confirmed the invitation. Choudhary praised CM Nitish Kumar’s humility at Patna expressway dedication aimed at easing traffic. He referenced corruption cases against RJD leaders, defending Kumar's Bihar growth initiatives.
    • Bihar CM Nitish Kumar appoints Manish Verma as JDU general secretary. Verma, an Odisha cadre IAS officer, known for his work on 'Saat Nischay' programme, could be a potential successor to Kumar.
    • Manish Kumar Verma, a key aide of Bihar CM Nitish Kumar, emphasized JD(U)'s demand for special status for the state. He highlighted support for Kumar's leadership in upcoming polls and hinted at potential changes within the party.
    • Bihar has appointed transgender person Manvi Madhu Kashyap as Sub-Inspector of Police, marking a historic first. Kashyap expressed gratitude to Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and others for support in achieving this milestone, highlighting struggles faced due to discrimination. Tripura has set up transgender protection cells for grievance redressal, aiming to ensure safety and empowerment of LGBTQIA+ community.
    • The Bihar government has suspended several engineers from the Water Resources Department in Siwan and from the Rural Works Department in the wake of incidents of bridge collapse. Over the past few days, the state has seen the collapse of at least 10 bridges, raising concerns about infrastructure safety and maintenance. A bridge collapsed in Bihar's Saran district last week, marking the 10th such incident in the state in just over a fortnight.
    • Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, at a function for the dedication of the "JP Ganga Path" expressway in Patna, expressed frustration over delays in a road project, offering to touch a private company representative's feet to hasten progress. The official, taken aback, rejected the gesture, leading to a social media buzz and criticism from the opposition, with Tejashwi Yadav calling Kumar "lachaar" (powerless) for his actions.
    • NITI Aayog member Arvind Virmani argued for practical solutions to state problems, stating that many like Rajasthan and Odisha have done well without special category status. He emphasized the importance of recognizing specific problems and finding pragmatic solutions in a democracy. Virmani noted that states like Andhra Pradesh and Bihar have been seeking special status since 2005, and that the 14th Finance Commission raised the share of states in taxes collected by the Centre to 42% but abolished special category states.
    • Former IAS officer Manish Verma, a close aide of Bihar CM Nitish Kumar, recently joined JD(U), having previously served as Additional Advisor to the CM, and was inducted into the party in the presence of top leaders. Hailing from Kumar's home district Nalanda and belonging to the Kurmi community, Verma's loyalty to the CM and strong ties with other JD(U) leaders are notable. His past roles include district magistrate in Patna and Purnea, as well as membership in the Bihar State Disaster Management Authority.
    • Twelve more people have died in lightning strikes across seven districts in Bihar, bringing the total fatalities to over 40 in the past 10 days, including 22 in the last 48 hours. Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar expressed condolences and announced an ex-gratia of Rs 4 lakh to the families of the deceased. He urged residents to stay indoors during thunderstorms and follow disaster management advisories. The recent deaths include three each in Jamui and Kaimur, two in Rohtas, and one each in Saharsa, Saran, Bhojpur, and Gopalganj.
    • Multiple bridge collapses in Bihar due to poor construction and maintenance practices. Government officials suspended as investigations continue. Impact on local communities and development highlighted.
    • RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav claimed a bridge collapse in Bihar, but officials clarified it was a makeshift structure washed away by heavy rain. Yadav shared a video of the incident in East Champaran district, where locals blamed poor materials. The District Magistrate confirmed it wasn't a bridge but a drain crossing covered with a small structure that collapsed due to rain. The incident adds to recent bridge collapses in Bihar, sparking political accusations.
    • Union Minister Chirag Paswan met with Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar in a show of solidarity between NDA partners. Paswan presented flowers to Kumar and assured support in the upcoming by-poll for the Rupauli assembly seat. The meeting comes after Paswan's induction into the Union cabinet and discussions on various issues, including recent bridge collapses.
    • Tejashwi Yadav criticizes Bihar government for corruption and inefficiency following a series of bridge collapses in the state. Concerns arise over infrastructure safety and maintenance after 10 bridges collapse within a short period. Yadav pledges to prevent the ruling party from winning future elections.
    • Former Bihar Chief Minister and RJD chief Lalu Prasad Yadav has called on his party workers to gear up for possible early elections, predicting the fall of the Modi government by August. Yadav stated that the current government in Delhi is very weak and could collapse soon.
    • On recent incidents of bridge collapses in Bihar, Union Minister Jitan Ram Manjhi said, "It is monsoon time. There has been an abnormal amount of rain, which is the reason behind the collapse of bridges. But, the CM of the state is very sensitive towards the investigation... He did a meeting yesterday and has given strict instructions that strict action should be taken against any kind of negligence..."
    • Bihar has experienced a 10th bridge collapse in just over a fortnight, with the latest incident in Saran. The small 15-year-old bridge over the Gandaki river collapsed, connecting several villages in Saran with the neighboring Siwan district. The exact cause of the collapse is yet to be ascertained, but desilting work was recently undertaken. Heavy rainfall in the district may have contributed to the collapses.
    • The Congress has accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of diminishing his legitimacy to "one-third" and his government on its "last legs" and potentially falling anytime. The opposition party's assertion came after Modi's remarks in the Rajya Sabha that he has completed 10 years and 20 more left. Congress leader Jairam Ramesh has been referring to Modi as a "one-third PM."
    • ​​The party had fared badly in the state even after the demolition of the Babri Masjid, the former Union minister said in Madhya Pradesh's Shivpuri district on Saturday. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) won only 33 of the 80 Lok Sabha seats in Uttar Pradesh in the 2024 parliamentary elections.
    • In pursuit of Bihar's development, I, as JDU's working president, advocate for special category status and reservation rights for marginalized communities. Our strategic resolutions and planned legal actions aim to secure a better future for Bihar, strengthening our collaboration with the BJP for the upcoming polls.
    • Congress queries Bihar CM's action on special category status. TDP's silence on Andhra Pradesh's status questioned. JD(U) demands special package for Bihar, highlighting key issues of price rise and unemployment. NDA urged to probe paper leak cases for a comprehensive resolution.
    • The JD(U) appointed Sanjay Jha, its Rajya Sabha member, as working president during a national executive meeting on Saturday. Neeraj Kumar, a senior leader of the party, highlighted that JD(U) reiterated its demand for special category status for Bihar at the meeting. Alternatively, they suggested the Centre could consider a special package. The party also emphasized the need for stringent action against those involved in exam paper leaks and advocated for robust legislation to prevent such incidents in the future.
    • JDU is holding its national executive meeting in New Delhi following the Lok Sabha election results. The meeting comes amid a demand from a section of the BJP in Bihar for the party to field its chief ministerial candidate in the next assembly elections. JDU and BJP leaders have dismissed claims of mistrust between the two parties.
    • Reacting to Choubey's comment, JD(U) Rajya Sabha MP, Sanjay Jha said that there is no confusion over leadership in Bihar. "NDA in Bihar means Nitish Kumar. There is no confusion over this," Jha told media persons in Delhi. Apart from Nitish Kumar, Choubey also raised questions about the state leadership of the BJP.
    • Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday lauded Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's leadership of the state as he met the MPs of Janata Dal (United). "Had a great meeting with JD(U) MPs. Our parties have a long history of working together and fighting poor governance, corruption and criminalisation in Bihar. The leadership of Nitish Kumar Ji has taken Bihar on the path of development. We will keep working together for good governance," he said on X.
    • The Kushwaha community in Bihar, comprising 4.2% of the state population, is being targeted by both the ruling coalition and opposition parties ahead of the assembly election. The JDU has nominated Bhagwan Singh Kushwaha for the MLC seat, which was promised to the Rashtriya Lok Morcha. The BJP is willing to send Kushwaha to the Rajya Sabha, as there are two vacancies in Bihar.
    • The Lok Sabha Speaker election is scheduled for today, June 26, but there is a notable issue as seven Members of Parliament (MPs) have not taken their oath. Five of these MPs belong to the Opposition, and two are independents, which will prevent them from participating in the election, potentially weakening the Opposition's influence.
    • The NDA government in Bihar has cancelled 350 contracts worth Rs 826 crore awarded during the previous RJD-led 'Mahagathbandhan' government due to irregularities in selecting contractors for rural water supply projects. The Public Health Engineering Department uncovered discrepancies and initiated a thorough probe. RJD leaders criticised the cancellations, claiming the NDA is intimidated by the success of the previous government's welfare initiatives.
    • Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Kumar Sinha announced plans to request Chief Minister Nitish Kumar for a CBI probe into the suspected links of prime suspect Sikander Prasad Yadvendu in the NEET "paper leak" with officials connected to RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav. Sinha emphasized the need for a high-level investigation amid growing protests and upcoming Supreme Court hearings.
    • Union Budget: Following recent Indian election results, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reasserts control over the federal government. Despite depending on various allies for support, none have significant ministerial roles. The focus shifts to relations between New Delhi and influential state governments, with demands for increased federal funds. The upcoming budget will reveal potential shifts in India's policy landscape.
    • The Patna High Court overturned Bihar's government decision to increase quotas for Dalits, backward classes, and tribals from 50% to 65% in state jobs and educational institutions, a move made based on a caste and socio-economic survey. The court's decision, responding to petitions challenging the legislation introduced in November 2023, halts the implementation that would have raised reserved seats to 75% including quotas for economically weaker sections (EWS).
    • Prime accused Yadvendu admitted arranging question papers for NEET aspirants, demanding Rs 40 lakh each. Confessional statement detailed contacts with Nitish Kumar and Amit Anand, known for leaking exam papers like NEET. Yadvendu provided leaked paper to candidates including his nephew Anurag Yadav before the NEET-UG 2024 exam.
    • Bihar Deputy CM vows to challenge Patna High Court order on reservation hike from 50% to 65% in support of deprived castes. The state government plans to move to the Supreme Court after consulting legal experts.
    • Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's cabinet approved metro projects in Patna, Muzaffarpur, Gaya, Darbhanga, and Bhagalpur, sharing costs between the central and state governments and financial institutions. The first phase of Patna Metro, with five operational stations by March 2025, will have both elevated and underground tracks. The cabinet also authorised conducting recruitment exams in two phases if there are a large number of candidates and approved opening sports clubs in all panchayats.
    • For the past few weeks, there have been murmurs that the 73-year-old leader could agree to "demands from within the party" that Nishant formally join the JD(U), which lacks a second rung leadership that could take over from the supremo once he decides to hang the boots. The speculations intensified on Monday, when Vidyanand Vikal, who is associated with the party and heads the State Food Commission, came out with a social media post.
    • While liberals have been rejoicing post-Lok Sabha elections, it is unlikely that PM Modi's third term will be very different from the first two despite having coalition partners
    • The election for the Speaker of the 18th Lok Sabha is expected to take place on June 26, during the special session of Parliament running until July 3, 2024. However, with the BJP falling short of a majority by 32 seats, there's uncertainty about who the NDA alliance’s candidate for the position will be.
    • Kishor said, "There is so much talk about Nitish Kumar playing a key role in Modi's return to power. But how is the Bihar CM leveraging his position? He is not using his clout to ensure benefits for the state. He is touching feet to ensure that he remains in power, with BJP support, even after 2025 assembly polls."
    • The JD(U) announced Kaladhar Prasad Mandal as its candidate for the upcoming by-election in Rupauli, necessitated by the resignation of MLA Bima Bharti. Mandal, previously an independent challenger to Bharti in 2020, received the endorsement of Bihar CM Nitish Kumar. Bharti, now with the RJD, hinted at supporting a family member if her new party contests the seat.
    • The Men in Blue's dominant performance led to a convincing seven-wicket victory over the USA in the T20 World Cup 2024. A Pakistani fan, who sold his tractor to watch the tournament, supported India after their win against Pakistan. Key players like Arshdeep Singh and the partnership of Suryakumar Yadav and Shivam Dube played pivotal roles in India's success.
    • India defeated the USA by seven wickets to enter the Super Eight of the T20 World Cup. Arshdeep Singh and Suryakumar Yadav led the Indian team, taking four wickets and restricting the USA to 110/8. Nitish Kumar and Corey Anderson contributed well for the USA, while Hardik Pandya and Arshdeep Singh were the best for India, taking six wickets each.
    • The bonhomie on display between PM Modi and the NDA allies is contrary to what many had expected: a lot of messy haggling over portfolios and competitive wooing of parties by the NDA and the INDIA block of opposition parties. The NDA has been off to a harmonious start. However, coalition governments often spring surprises over time.
    • Raut suggested that if RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat believed the NDA government at the Centre was not beneficial for the country, he should withdraw his support. He stated, "There are two 'atrupta aatmas' (dissatisfied souls) in the Centre -- Nitish Kumar and Chandrababu Naidu. You (BJP) should satisfy these two atrupta aatma." He implied that the way portfolios were distributed has left many, particularly NDA allies, dissatisfied.
    • Manjhi was sworn in as a Union Cabinet Minister in Modi 3.0 government. He has served as the 23rd chief minister of Bihar, and is the founding president of Hindustani Awam Morcha (HAM). Previously, Manjhi had served as the minister for scheduled castes and scheduled tribes welfare in Nitish Kumar's Cabinet. He won the Gaya seat in 2024 general elections.
    • Nitish Kumar, Bihar's chief minister, has re-emerged as a key ally in the NDA, significantly influencing the Modi 3.0 government. His political journey from a socialist leader to a transformative figure in Bihar politics highlights his resilience and adaptability. With the induction of two JD(U) ministers into the Union cabinet, Kumar's importance in the NDA is evident. His strategic role and experience make him a crucial figure in shaping the new government's policies and priorities.
    • In a grand ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan, Narendra Modi and his team of 71 took oath, marking the start of Modi 3.0. This new term retains key members from the previous government while introducing many fresh faces. The focus now shifts to the allocation of portfolios.
    • Those joining Prime Minister Narendra Modi's council of ministers for the first time include three former chief ministers -- Shivraj Singh Chouhan (Madhya Pradesh), Manohar Lal Khattar (Haryana) and HD Kumaraswamy (Karnataka).
    • Ram Nath Thakur, a two-time Rajya Sabha MP from JD(U) and son of socialist icon Karpoori Thakur, continues the movement of empowering the underprivileged initiated by prominent leaders like Dr Ram Manohar Lohia and Jai Prakash Narayan.
    • Jitan Ram Manjhi, once unexpectedly anointed Chief Minister by Nitish Kumar as a caretaker, defied expectations with bold defiance, leading to his ousting and subsequent formation of HAM(S).
    • Senior JD(U) leader Rajiv Ranjan, popularly known as Lalan Singh, recently inducted as a minister in the Nitish Kumar government, has been a key ally. He played a crucial role in forming the JD(U)-RJD alliance in 2022.
    • Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar was offered the prime ministerial post by the Opposition INDIA bloc, according to Janata Dal (United) leader KC Tyagi. However, Kumar declined the offer, stating that he was offered the position by those who did not allow him to become the convenor of the INDIA bloc. Congress leader KC Venugopal denied any knowledge of the INDIA bloc's offer, stating that only he knows about it.
    • In an interview with ANI, the former CM of Bihar said, "One who treads on the difficult path has a speciality to reach his destination, not the one who treads on an easier path. This scenario matches exactly with the third term of Narendra Modi Ji. Initially, it was Prime Minister Jawahar Lal Nehru, who reigned for the third consecutive term as Prime Minister. After 62 years, this day has come again for Prime Minister Narendra Modi and he will complete his full term."
    • USA batter Nitish Kumar played a crucial role in the landmark victory over Pakistan in the ICC T20 World Cup, praising Indian players as some of the best in the world.
    • Top BJP leaders, including Nadda and Shah, met with NDA partners to discuss cabinet formation. The meeting involved leaders from JD(U), TDP, and Shiv Sena. Potential ministers from various parties were considered, with JD(S), LJP, HAM, Shiv Sena, NCP, RLD, and Apna Dal (S) likely to have representation. Bihar's cabinet allocation was also addressed, with a formula reportedly agreed upon.
    • BJP allies N Chandrababu Naidu and Nitish Kumar praised PM Modi at the NDA meeting. They emphased the need to balance regional aspirations with national objectives. The atmosphere was jovial, with leaders like H D Kumaraswamy and Eknath Shinde expressing support for Modi's leadership. Modi received accolades from allies like Chirag Paswan and Pawan Kalyan, with Naidu and Kumar stressing the importance of holistic development for all.
    • President Droupadi Murmu appointed Narendra Modi as the next Prime Minister of India after the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) submitted letters of support. The appointment was confirmed by Rashtrapati Bhavan, stating that Modi will lead the 18th Lok Sabha. The swearing-in ceremony is scheduled for June 9.
    • JD(U) supremo Nitish Kumar's pivotal role in the NDA government formation sees party workers in Patna showcasing a large poster with 'Tiger Zinda Hai' alongside his image, highlighting his influence on NDA's Lok Sabha performance in Bihar. Despite JD(U) and BJP both winning 12 seats, Kumar's leadership is crucial for the BJP-led government. Colourful banners and posters celebrating Kumar's success adorn various locations in the city, reflecting the party's high morale post-election.
    • USA secured a thrilling victory against Pakistan in the Group A of the T20 World Cup, securing a memorable Super Over finish. The USA scored 18 runs, surpassing Pakistan's 13, securing a memorable win in US cricket history. However, the defeat left Pakistan fans and cricket experts disappointed and sparked a meme fest on social media. A British-Pakistani woman criticized the team's inconsistent performances, while a Pakistan cricket fan, Nabiha, criticized the team's lack of substantial results.
    • A traffic signal near New York's World Trade Centre briefly malfunctioned during the T20 World Cup match between the USA and Pakistan. The USA needed a boundary off the final ball to force a 'Super Over' against Pakistan, and Saurabh Netravalkar, an India-origin engineer-turned-fast-bowler, became the hero for the USA by restricting Pakistan to 13 runs in the Super Over.
    • A social media row erupted over RLD chief Jayant Chaudhary's seating during the NDA meeting in Parliament. While key NDA allies sat on stage with PM Modi, Chaudhary was placed among the elected members, sparking mockery from the Samajwadi Party. They highlighted BJP’s alleged disrespect towards Chaudhary and questioned his alliance with the NDA, given his party’s farmer-centric stance.
    • ​​The Dravidian party's Tamil mouthpiece 'Murasoli,' in an editorial said Modi sought votes in the name of god and when that campaign did not click, he claimed that "he was god himself" but eventually he would now become the prime minister only due to the support of Chandrababu Naidu and Nitish Kumar.
    • PM-elect Narendra Modi praised Lok Sabha members and party workers for their dedication during the recent elections. He highlighted the NDA's success across 22 states, emphasizing its reflection of India's spirit. Rajnath Singh proposed Modi's leadership in the Lok Sabha, a move supported by all NDA leaders. Modi's unanimous election signifies unity within the NDA. Modi stressed the importance of consensus in governing the nation.
    • Senior BJP leader Rajnath Singh proposed Narendra Modi as the leader of the NDA Parliamentary Party, supported by Amit Shah, Nitin Gadkari, and other top NDA figures at the central hall of the old Parliament house. Singh praised Modi for expanding the BJP-led NDA, emphasizing the alliance's reflection of BJP's commitment, not just a necessity.
    • JD(U) leader Nitish Kumar on Friday vowed to support Prime Minister Narendra Modi to form the new government at the centre and said that his party will always be with NDA.
    • Newcomers USA stun former champions Pakistan in a T20 World Cup upset, winning in a Super Over in Dallas. Key players include Mohammad Rizwan, Babar Azam, Usman Khan, Fakhar Zaman, Shadab Khan, Azam Khan, Shaheen Afridi, Haris Rauf, Steven Taylor, Monank Patel, and Andries Gous.
    • Amid NDA's government formation efforts, JDU demanded a review of the Agnipath scheme for Indian armed forces. JDU cited concerns among youth, while also advocating for a caste census at the national level. The party supports BJP's Uniform Civil Code proposal but stresses the need for consultation with all stakeholders. JDU continues to push for special status for Bihar despite being a part of the NDA coalition.
    • No one knows what words Nitish Kumar and Tejashwi Yadav exchanged during their Wednesday flight from Patna to Delhi. But assigned a seat behind the Bihar chief minister, the RJD leader was visibly awkward. Especially since unlike other public spaces, removing oneself from an airborne plane, not the biggest of spaces to hide away inside anyway, wasn't an option.
    • BJP allies, including JD(U), push for special category status for Bihar at Centre, as per JD(U) supremo and Bihar CM Nitish Kumar's long-pending demand.
    • Jairam Ramesh said the 'mahagathbandhan' government of the RJD, Congress and Nitish Kumar had gotten a caste survey done in Bihar. We demanded that a nationwide caste census be carried out and even Nitish Kumar has supported this. Do you (PM) promise to conduct caste census in the entire country like it has been done in Bihar?" Ramesh said.
    • In the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, 41 political parties had candidates elected, up from 36 in 2019. National parties secured 346 seats (64%), state-recognized parties won 179 seats (33%), unrecognized parties clinched 11 seats, and independents won seven. Participation increased to 751 parties, a 104% rise since 2009.
    • Lok Sabha Elections 2024 Result: In the aftermath of the General Elections, the Janata Dal (United) and the Telugu Desam Party have emerged as influential players in government formation at the Centre. Their renewed emphasis on securing special category status for Bihar and Andhra Pradesh has reignited discussions on this crucial issue. Let's delve into what special category status entails and why it holds significant importance for these states.
    • The internet has been atwitter with polling buzz since election results started unfolding on Tuesday, with netizens posting memes, comments and even some educational information on the polls.
    • Saumya Sahni, a 27-year-old content creator and comic, relies on memes for her knowledge of the Lok Sabha election results, finding humor essential for digesting information. Memes on social media platforms, especially Instagram, have been a popular medium for expressing sentiments about the election results, often using humor and sarcasm to convey social, political, or cultural commentary. However, while memes are effective in engaging audiences and spreading awareness, there is a need for better attribution practices to credit original creators.
    • Nitish Kumar has been pushing for subsidized electricity rates from NTPC and other central producers. A senior JDU leader mentioned that Bihar buys electricity at a high cost and also provides consumer subsidies. Kumar might request a "one nation, one tariff" policy for electricity. With Bihar's assembly elections approaching in 2025, this issue is significant.
    • Tejashwi Yadav explained a viral picture with Nitish Kumar, stating they greeted each other and Nitish invited him to sit with him. NDA and INDIA bloc leaders, including Nitish Kumar and Chandrababu Naidu, arrived in Delhi. Nitish and Tejashwi were coincidentally on the same flight. The NDA elected Narendra Modi as their leader in Delhi. The INDIA bloc meeting is at Mallikarjun Kharge's residence. President Droupadi Murmu dissolved the 17th Lok Sabha on Cabinet's advice. BJP won 240 seats, Congress 99, and the INDIA bloc crossed 230, defying predictions.
    • The aftermath of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections sees Nitish Kumar and Tejashwi Yadav, political rivals, sharing a flight to Delhi, sparking speculation about their discussions. Both the NDA and INDIA alliances are holding crucial meetings in Delhi, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi likely to take the oath for his third term on Saturday.
    • Bihar minister Vijay Kumar Choudhary stated that JD(U) is committed to the NDA despite being courted by both NDA and INDIA blocs. The party will continue to demand special category status for Bihar. With BJP lacking a majority, JD(U) and TDP are pivotal in government formation. Choudhary emphasized Bihar's financial needs.
    • The Lok Sabha elections saw a new generation of leaders breaking age barriers and reshaping the political landscape. Among these trailblazers is a group of individuals, all aged 25, who emerged victorious, securing seats in the lower house of Parliament. Notably, among these four youngest candidates are three women: Priya Saroj, Shambhavi Choudhary, and Sanjana Jatav.
    • The newly elected MPs of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), led by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), will convene for a meeting on June 7 in the national capital, reported ANI, citing sources. According to these sources, the agenda will focus on discussions around forming the government.
    • Lok Sabha election results: Chandrababu Naidu and Nitish Kumar are being called the kingmakers. TDP and JD(U) have won 16 and 12 seats in Andhra Pradesh and Bihar respectively.
    • In response to reporters at the Delhi airport, RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav advised to "wait and watch" regarding the INDI alliance forming a government. His comments came before the INDI alliance meeting and after traveling with Bihar CM Nitish Kumar. This reflects the strategic maneuvers both NDA and INDI are undertaking post-election results.
    • Modi 3.0 Oath : BJP leader Narendra Modi is likely to be sworn in as Prime Minister for a third consecutive term on June 8, following the NDA's victory in the general elections. Despite losses in three Hindi heartland states, the BJP-led NDA secured 291 seats. The BJP will rely on allies for stability, notably winning 19 of 21 seats in Odisha.
    • The 2024 Lok Sabha elections were a significant event in India's political landscape, marked by intense competition and unexpected outcomes. In this visual guide, we break down the key results, major upsets, and notable events that shaped the election. From vote counts to party performances, here’s a graphic explanation of what happened during the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.
    • Following the contested Lok Sabha elections, India's political landscape is heating up, with both the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) and the INDIA bloc preparing for crucial meetings in Delhi. Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and his opponent, Tejashwi Yadav of the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), departed together to Delhi.
    • PM Modi was accompanied by Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav and Delhi's Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena during the sapling planting.
    • Nitish Kumar, Janata Dal United (JDU) chief and Bihar Chief Minister, has drawn attention as the opposition INDIA alliance won 233 seats, just 40 short of a majority. Known for his frequent alliance changes, earning him the nickname 'Paltu Kumar,' his shifting loyalties have significantly impacted Bihar and national politics. His future moves ahead of the 2024 elections are keenly watched.
    • Following the completion of the Lok Sabha poll counting, key allies of both BJP and Congress have begun converging in Delhi to discuss the formation of the new government. The Union Cabinet was scheduled to convene today at 11:30 am in Delhi. Later in the day, NDA leaders will gather at Prime Minister Modi's residence, located at 7 Lok Kalyan Marg. This meeting is set for around 3:30 pm, as reported by ANI.
    • According to the final results, declared early on June 4, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is poised to form the government for a third consecutive term with the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) getting a majority in the Lok Sabha, notwithstanding crushing losses in three Hindi heartland states after a bitterly fought election that was projected as a referendum on his popularity.
    • The Lok Sabha 2024 elections saw the return of the coalition era with the ruling BJP falling short of the majority but forming the government with the National Democratic Alliance. Key allies like Chandrababu Naidu from the Telugu Desam Party and Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar played crucial roles in securing stability.
    • The opposition INDIA bloc, led by Congress, achieved a significant poll performance in key states, including Uttar Pradesh, preventing the BJP from securing a majority in the Lok Sabha. Rahul Gandhi emphasized the rejection of Narendra Modi and Amit Shah, triggering a stock market plunge.
    • Before the declaration of the poll results, questions were raised on Nitish Kumar’s “political credibility” as a “vote-catcher” in view of his frequent decisions to change his allies in the state. Besides, he was also politically targeted for his health. JDU’s three MBC faces have won elections, apart from two MBC candidates from the BJP camp. In the NDA, Nitish still remains the most prominent OBC face in the state.
    • After 27 years, as the election results poured in on Tuesday, it became clear that Naidu, now 74, is back in his old avatar – of being the kingmaker. TDP has emerged the second-largest party in the NDA with 16 LS seats and cornered 134 of 175 assembly seats in Andhra Pradesh. Result: BJP needs Naidu’s support at the Centre, but he does not need them in the state. He is a kingmaker now.
    • Indian voters have surprised by delivering a coalition government, signaling a shift from BJP's solitary rule. Despite maintaining its vote share, BJP lost majority due to significant seat losses in key states. The party's losses were offset by gains in Telangana, Odisha, and Andhra Pradesh. TMC resisted BJP in West Bengal, while in Bihar, JD(U) helped BJP. These results challenge the perception of Modi's invincibility and highlight the importance of state dynamics in elections. The outcome reflects voters' concerns about economic distress and jobless growth.
    • With the BJP falling short of a majority, party leaders urgently sought support from their alliance partners to form a third consecutive NDA government at the Centre. Key allies Chandrababu Naidu and Nitish Kumar's backing became crucial. The BJP planned a meeting with NDA allies on Wednesday, likely to be attended by Naidu and Kumar
    • Shiv Sena president Uddhav Thackeray, buoyed by the Lok Sabha polls, pushes for forming the next government at the Centre.
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    The Economic Times
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