As Bihar prepares for the 2025 Assembly elections, the political atmosphere feels familiar yet subtly different. In 2015, the state echoed with the slogan “Phir Ek Baar, Nitish Kumar” (Once Again, Nitish Kumar), highlighting the public’s trust in his leadership. That election reinforced Nitish Kumar’s image as Bihar’s stable and experienced leader, synonymous with development and governance.
Fast forward to 2025, and the political scene is quieter. Instead of loud rallies, Nitish Kumar’s campaigns focus on small, targeted interactions. His party cadres are going door-to-door in villages and towns, creating what some call his “invisible advantage.” While opponents compete for attention with high-energy campaigns, Nitish relies on the legacy of his governance and the trust he has earned over decades.
One of Nitish Kumar’s most significant strengths has been his strong support from women. Over the years, his administration has implemented multiple programs to empower women and improve their livelihoods. The flagship Mukhyamantri Mahila Rozgar Yojana (MMRY), launched with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s support, has transferred Rs 10,000 each to over 10 million women, with a total budget of Rs 10,000 crore. These efforts have encouraged self-employment and entrepreneurship.
Additionally, Bihar has supported women through self-help groups, including 11 lakh groups with 1.4 crore women members, often called Jeevika Didis. The state was also a pioneer in giving women 50 percent reservation in Panchayati Raj institutions in 2006, followed by 35 percent reservation in the police services in 2013. These measures gave women a stronger voice in governance, slowly building a resilient political base for Nitish Kumar.
Programs like the Mukhyamantri Balika Cycle Yojana, launched in 2006-07, also created a lasting impact. By providing bicycles to girls, the program helped reduce gender disparities in education. School enrollment increased by 30 percent among girls of secondary school age, absenteeism decreased, and many were able to delay early marriage and pregnancy. These programs not only empowered women but also strengthened Nitish Kumar’s political support, making women a key factor in his electoral success.
Compared to the highly visible and energetic campaigns of previous elections, Nitish Kumar’s 2025 campaign is understated. There are fewer mass rallies, and the focus is on quiet, strategic engagement. Many see this election as Nitish’s potential farewell, a last chance to solidify his legacy. Even within his party, there is recognition that this might be his final term, which raises the stakes even higher.
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Nitish Kumar’s political journey is unique. Despite lacking a strong personal political base, he has remained one of India’s longest-serving chief ministers. His influence has been built on governance, credibility, and the trust of voters rather than caste-based or flashy political tactics. Over the years, he has created a cross-sectional support base cutting across caste and social lines, making him a “leader without a party” in some respects.
The 2025 election is not just about votes; it is also a test of whether experience and trust can compete with new promises and the desire for change. Women voters, in particular, have historically played a crucial role in supporting Nitish Kumar, and his initiatives in education, self-employment, and governance continue to resonate with them.
While his alliance partner BJP has supported these initiatives, Nitish has largely crafted his image and base independently, much like other strong leaders in Indian politics. His strategy reflects a combination of earned trust, governance credibility, and consistent focus on social development programs.
As the state heads to the polls, the question remains: will Nitish Kumar’s invisible advantages and quiet leadership style help him secure one final victory, or is Bihar ready for a change in leadership? The legacy of “Phir Ek Baar, Nitish Kumar” still lingers, but this time the slogan carries a deeper question—continuation or a dignified farewell to one of Bihar’s most enduring leaders.
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