How Nitish Kumar’s poll payback powers Bihar’s women micro entrepreneurs
The next phase of the CM Women’s Employment Scheme is active, promising those who productively used the Rs 10,000 seed grant a scale-up capital of Rs 2 lakh
Nitish Kumar is an Indian politician who was born on 1 March 1951 in Bakhtiarpur, Bihar. His father, Kaviraj Ram Lakhan Singh, was an Ayurvedic practitioner, while his mother’s name is Parmeshwari Devi. He belongs to the political outfit Janta Dal (United), also known as JD(U).
An alumnus of the National Institute of Technology, Patna, he has also been a part of the central government as a cabinet minister in the NDA led central government. In March 2000, Nitish was elected Chief Minister of Bihar for the first time at the behest of the Vajpayee Government in the centre. Although, Nitish resigned before he could prove his numbers in the house.
His stint as the Union Railway Minister in the year 2004 was the most influential one during which he introduced the internet ticket booking system and the tatkal ticket booking system. After the victory in the 2005 Bihar Assembly elections, Kumar was once again sworn in as the chief minister of Bihar. During his first tenure as a CM of Bihar from 2000 to 2005, he made both social justice and development his political theme. He initiated a few bicycle and meal programs in the state.
In 2010, he once again became the Chief Minister of Bihar for the third time. He resigned from the post of the CM in 2014, a day after his party fared poorly in the 2014 Lok Sabha elections. After contesting the 2015 Bihar Legislative Assembly election along with RJD and Congress, he took oath as the CM of Bihar. But following the break up of 'Mahagathbandhan' due to the corruption charges on Tejashwi Yadav, he resigned on July 26, 2017, ending the Grand Alliance.
Following a brief stint as the CM of ‘Mahagathbandhan’ (Grand Alliance) which had JD(U), RJD and Congress as its key partner, Kumar resigned from the post and once again joined hands with NDA. Kumar, sworn as the Chief Minister for the seventh time in 2020. He is the longest-serving CM of Bihar.
The next phase of the CM Women’s Employment Scheme is active, promising those who productively used the Rs 10,000 seed grant a scale-up capital of Rs 2 lakh
The Bihar cabinet, led by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, approved 31 proposals on Tuesday, including major hikes in student scholarships, the construction of a new music college, and measures to strengthen the state’s police force. The decisions are expected to benefit lakhs of students and improve security across Bihar.
The Bihar government has significantly increased financial assistance under the Chief Minister’s Women Employment Scheme to empower women entrepreneurs. This move aims to boost local employment and reduce migration by linking support to beneficiaries' performance.
Several trains, including the Vaishali Express, were halted at Samastipur after the railway crossing near Karpuri Gram was kept open for the movement of Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar’s convoy.
The Bihar government plans to build a 30-storey Bihar Bhawan in Mumbai to support its residents, sparking political opposition from the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena. Bihar minister Ashok Chaudhari firmly rejects attempts to block the project, emphasising constitutional rights and welfare priorities.
Virat Kohli's 54th ODI hundred went in vain as New Zealand scripted a historic series win in Indore on Sunday, January 18. Daryl Mitchell and Glenn Phillips' hundreds and a disciplined bowling effort helped the visitors to secure the win and give India a new low.
The new policy, which would bar private practice for government doctors, would be aimed at improving doctor availability, reduce patient wait times, and enhance the overall quality of treatment at public hospitals.
Former India batter Hanuma Vihari has jumped to the defence of Nitish Kumar Reddy after the all-rounder was trolled on social media, following his performance in the Rajkot ODI. Nitish didn't have a big role to play in the second match as New Zealand levelled the series.
The gesture marks a notable shift amid reports of a long-standing rift within the Yadav family and is the first time Tej Pratap has been seen with his family members on a public platform. Commenting on Tejashwi’s absence, Tej Pratap Yadav said his brother is surrounded by traitors, which is why he hasn’t come.
India vs New Zealand, 2nd ODI: India picked fast-bowling all-rounder Niitsh Kumar Reddy as Washington Sundar's replacement for the second ODI in Rajkot on Wednesday. Ayush Badoni, who was handed his maiden call-up, will have to wait for his first chance to play for the senior national team.
Literally a government on the move, Nitish Kumar’s Bihar tour will be measured not in kilometres travelled or projects inaugurated but in the currency of credibility
Before the 2025 Assembly election in Bihar, there were doubts over Nitish Kumar's age and gaffes. Opposition parties, clubbing that with a 20-year anti-incumbency, tried to corner him. But on the ground, for years, a transformation had been taking place on the crime front that was in stark contrast to Bihar's "Jungle Raj" tag. The latest data on crime might reveal the real reason why Nitish became the CM for the 10th time.
With a massive assembly poll win, the '10-time CM' not only cocked a snook at critics, but recentred himself as the main architect of Bihar's next act
This decision has been taken in view of the incidents of theft, robbery, and fraud that have occurred in several districts, they claimed.
Kris Srikkanth has joked that maybe Ruturaj Gaikwad will need to convince the Indian selectors that he can keep wickets to get his spot back in the side. Ruturaj was a surprise omission from the squad for the New Zealand series.
Subramaniam Badrinath has questioned India’s ODI selection logic ahead of the New Zealand series. The former batter believes Ruturaj Gaikwad was overlooked unfairly, while Nitish Kumar Reddy’s inclusion raises concerns.
Former cricketer Aakash Chopra questioned the roles of Rishabh Pant and Nitish Kumar Reddy in the Indian squad ahead of the New Zealand series. India will play three ODIs against New Zealand, starting from January 11.
Regional leaders turned state-level dominance into national leverage, weakening Delhi’s authority, reshaping coalition politics and forcing the Centre into dependence
The Bihar government has again extended the joining deadline for Dr Nusrat Parveen, whose naqab was pulled down by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, while she was receiving her appointment letter at an event in December, to January 7.
Bihar's government is preparing to introduce 40 electric buses connecting Patna and prominent tourist spots, with an aim to strengthen transport access, boost comfort, and increase tourism across the state.
In this news report, the Bihar government has officially recommended a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the shocking death of a NEET aspirant in Patna. The decision follows a forensic report that revealed the presence of semen on the victim's undergarments, supporting allegations of sexual harassment and potentially rape and murder. The speaker notes that 'Nitish government recommends CBI probe in the NEET aspirant's death' to ensure a transparent investigation after the local police and Special Investigation Team (SIT) failed to make a breakthrough in three weeks. The victim's family recently met with senior police officials, alleging they were being pressured to treat the case as a simple murder. Both the Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister have emphasized that a CBI inquiry is necessary to uncover the truth behind the student's death, which was initially dismissed as a suicide by preliminary police reports.
On this Special Report, the focus is on a significant political development in Kerala where Union Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment, Ramdas Athawale, has extended an invitation to Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and the Left parties to join the National Democratic Alliance (NDA). During his visit to Kannur, Athawale stated, 'Honorable Vijayanji, I respect him because he's from the communist party, he's a leftist, I was also leftist but I joined NDA and the leadership of Narendra Modi.' He suggested that if the Left joins the NDA, Kerala would receive more development funds and a 'big package' from the Centre. Athawale further proposed that such a move would allow Pinarayi Vijayan to continue as the Chief Minister. The Left has responded by dismissing the offer, citing their historical ideological battle against the RSS and BJP in the state. The programme examines the implications of this unusual political overture ahead of the upcoming assembly polls.
In this Special Report, reporter Piyush provides live updates from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) national headquarters where celebrations are underway for the appointment of the new party president. Nitin Nabin, a 45-year-old leader with extensive organizational experience, has been elected unopposed to the top post. Piyush notes that 'not even one other candidate had filed a nomination against Nitin Naveen', marking a significant generational shift within the party. The event is expected to be attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, and several BJP Chief Ministers. The transition highlights the party's strategy of elevating grassroots workers who have risen through the ranks, from booth-level operations to national leadership. The programme captures the festive atmosphere at the headquarters as the party prepares for a new chapter under Naveen’s leadership, following his successful track record in Bihar and the BJYM.
On this news bulletin, senior journalist Neerja Chowdhury analyzes the significant leadership transition within the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Following the appointment of Nitin Nabin as the new party president, Chowdhury highlights that this move represents a 'consensus choice between the RSS and the BJP' after a period of deliberation. She notes that the 45-year-old leader, a five-time MLA, signifies a generational change and a shift toward organizational primacy. Chowdhury traces the party's journey from its formation in 1980 and its two-seat low in 1984 to its current dominance. She further explains that the appointment suggests the BJP is eyeing increased influence in Eastern India and specifically the leadership in Bihar. The discussion underscores how the party's well-oiled machinery allows it to elevate younger leaders while maintaining strategic continuity under the overarching guidance of senior leadership like Amit Shah.
On this Special Report, India Today’s Himanshu Mishra discusses the elevation of Nitin Naveen as the National President of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Highlighting his journey from a grassroots worker to the party's top post, Mishra notes that Naveen’s appointment signals a generational shift within the organization. The speaker emphasizes Naveen's core philosophy, quoting him: 'There are no shortcuts in politics.' The discussion details Naveen's extensive experience, including his five terms as an MLA, his ministerial roles in Bihar, and his successful stint as the election in-charge for Chhattisgarh, where the BJP secured 54 seats. The report also covers his visits to various religious sites, including the Jhandewalan Temple and Bangla Sahib Gurudwara, reflecting the party's 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas' motto. Naveen’s deep connection with the youth wing and his organizational skills are cited as key reasons for his selection to lead the party into its next phase.
On this Special Report, the focus is on Nitin Naveen as he prepares to formally take over as the National President of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). At 45, Naveen becomes the youngest leader to hold the top post, succeeding JP Nadda. Before the transition ceremony at the BJP headquarters, Naveen visited several religious sites in the national capital, including the Jhandevalan Temple, Valmiki Temple, Hanuman Temple, and Bangla Sahib Gurudwara. Speaking on his journey, the report notes he has transitioned 'from Nitin to Adhyakshji,' highlighting his rise from a grassroots worker to a five-time MLA and Bihar cabinet minister. The ceremony, scheduled for 11:30 am, will be attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, and other senior leaders. The programme explores the significance of his unopposed election and the organizational skills he brings to the saffron party.
On this Special Report, journalist Himanshu Mishra discusses the significant generational shift within the Bharatiya Janata Party as Nitin Nabin is set to be announced as the next National President. Mishra notes, 'This is the fourth generation of the BJP,' highlighting that the 45-year-old leader represents a transition from the eras of Vajpayee-Advani and Modi-Shah. The transcript details the arrival of the Bihar BJP leadership in Delhi, including Deputy Chief Ministers Samrat Chaudhary and Vijay Sinha, to witness the ceremony. Mishra emphasizes that Naveen’s background in the youth movement has built a nationwide network of supporters, including current Chief Ministers and MPs. The discussion explores how the BJP leadership is moving beyond established 'oligarchies' to empower younger organizational leaders. The programme also features personal anecdotes from Naveen’s childhood associates in Patna, reflecting on his journey from a 'weak boy' to a key organizational strategist trusted by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Amit Shah.
Mamata Banerjee, chairperson of the All India Trinamool Congress, addresses a rally attacking the BJP and central government for allegedly misusing agencies and power. She declares, 'You have captured all the agencies under the government of India.' Banerjee accuses the BJP of forcibly taking over multiple states and targeting Bengal, stating that many Bengalis face attacks outside their state. She threatens to expose evidence related to the Coal Scam, allegedly involving the Home Minister. Banerjee also accuses the government of interfering with Trinamool Congress' political operations and criticises the extension of the BSF's jurisdiction. The Chief Minister maintains that her administration prioritises peace and harmony in Bengal and expresses her determination to defend her party and supporters.
On this special year-ender edition of the Democratic Newsroom, the India Today panel reviews the defining moments and figures of 2025. One speaker identifies 'Trumpian turbulence' as the year's dominant force, citing Donald Trump's disruption of the global order and foreign policy impact. Another view highlights the 'Women of India' as true trailblazers, celebrating achievements in sports, defense, and the electoral arena. The discussion also covers India's financial architecture overhaul led by the Reserve Bank of India and the decisive 'Operation Sindoor' against cross-border terror. The programme debates the contrast between global instability and India's assertive growth, while also touching upon the challenges facing democracies worldwide.
As a political war over the Aravalli mountain ranges has intensified, Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav on Monday accused the Congress of spreading "misinformation" and "lies" on the issue.
In this Special Report, celebrated poet and lyricist Javed Akhtar strongly condemns Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar for pulling down the hijab of Dr Nusrat Parveen during an appointment letter ceremony in Patna. Calling the act ‘indecent’ and ‘male chauvinistic’, Akhtar demands a public apology from the CM, stating, ‘If there is an iota of decency in Nitish Kumar, which I suspect, he should apologize.’ While reiterating his personal opposition to the practice of hijab and purdah, Akhtar argues that forcibly removing it is a violation of individual dignity. He also comments on BJP Minister Giriraj Singh’s defence of the incident.
In this report on the escalating hijab controversy in Bihar, the focus is on Ayush doctor Dr. Nusrat Parveen, who has not joined duty at the Sabalpur Primary Health Centre following an incident where Chief Minister Nitish Kumar allegedly lifted her veil. While 63 other doctors have reported for work, Dr. Parveen’s absence has sparked a political storm. Jharkhand Health Minister Irfan Ansari has stepped in, offering the doctor a government job and stating, 'I have offered that girl, Daughter, you come to Jharkhand. I will give you a government job.' The Congress has criticized Kumar for insensitivity, while the BJP has defended his actions.
In an exclusive interview with India Today, poet-lyricist Javed Akhtar slammed Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar for pulling down a Muslim woman's niqab and said he should apologise if he has an iota of decency.
Massive violence erupted in Bangladesh once again as mobs go on the rampage following the death and killing of a student leader, Sharif Osman Hadi.
This Special Report details the fallout from the Supreme Court's November 20 judgment, which established a new definition for the Aravalli range. The ruling sets a '100-meter' height criterion, a move that could strip legal protection from up to 90% of the hills, potentially opening them to mining and development. The program features Rajasthan MLA Ravindra Singh Bhati, who warns against inviting a 'red carpet' for mining mafias, and highlights the #SaveAravalli campaign's fight against potential ecological damage. The report then addresses a separate controversy involving Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, who was filmed pulling a woman doctor's hijab at a public event. This segment includes analysis from women's rights activist Zakia Soman, who discusses the violation of dignity, and political analyst Karan Varma, who debates the incident's politicization, exploring the social and legal implications of the Chief Minister's action.
This episode of To The Point covers two major developing stories – first, the ecological future of the Aravalli range and uproar over Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar pulling down a Muslim woman’s hijab.
On this India Today debate, activist Zakia Soman and analyst Karan Verma discuss the controversy surrounding Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar pulling the veil of an Ayush doctor. Zakia Soman condemns the incident as ‘highly patriarchal’ and a ‘criminal act’ under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, stating, ‘It is a criminal act to outrage the modesty of a woman.’ She demands a stern warning from the National Commission for Women. Conversely, Karan Verma argues the act was an ‘honest mistake’ and cautions against giving it a ‘religious colour,’ though he agrees an apology is due. The discussion follows PDP leader Iltija Mufti filing an FIR and J&K CM Omar Abdullah questioning the BJP’s silence.
On this India Today debate, anchor Preeti Choudhry discusses the controversy surrounding Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar pulling the hijab of an AYUSH doctor, Nusrat Parveen, at a public event. Women Rights Activist Zakia Soman condemns the act as 'highly patriarchal' and 'inappropriate', arguing it violates the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) Sections 74 and 75-76 regarding outraging a woman's modesty. She demands a public apology and action from the National Commission for Women. Political Analyst Karan Varma agrees that the Chief Minister's action was wrong and invaded personal space but argues against giving the incident a 'religious color' or politicizing it as an attack on a specific community. The discussion explores the boundaries of personal space, the dignity of women in public life, and the political ramifications of the incident.
Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has sparked a major controversy after a viral video showed him pulling the veil of a young Ayush doctor during an event. The incident has drawn sharp criticism from political leaders. PDP leader Iltija Mufti has filed a complaint, stating: 'We are appealing to the police here... to take strict cognizance and action against the Bihar Chief Minister.' Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah also condemned the act and the BJP's defense, asking: 'If in Haryana or Rajasthan there was a Hindu woman's veil and I had removed it, would the BJP say the same?' Union Minister Giriraj Singh has defended the Bihar CM.
This edition of Super 6 focusses on the escalating violence in Bangladesh where a Hindu man, Deepu Chandra Das, was lynched and burnt alive by a mob in Mymensingh.