Nitish Kumar, the Chief Minister of Bihar, has had a long and storied political career marked by shifting alliances and an uncanny ability to remain in power. As Bihar's longest-serving Chief Minister, Kumar's political journey is a testament to his strategic acumen and survival instincts in the ever-changing landscape of Indian politics.

Kumar, now in his mid-70s, entered politics as a member of the Janata Dal, and was elected to the State Assembly in 1985. In 1990, he supported Lalu Prasad for the Chief Minister's post. However, in 1994, Kumar formed a splinter group of the Janata Dal, which later became the Samata Party. In 1996, he switched his allegiance to the BJP. From 1998 to 2004, he served as a Union Minister in the NDA government under Atal Bihari Vajpayee, holding portfolios such as Railways, Surface Transport, and Agriculture.

Kumar first became Chief Minister of Bihar in 2000, though his tenure lasted only seven days. He returned to the post in 2005, ushering in an era of development and improved governance. His administration focused on improving road infrastructure, rural electrification, education, and law and order, which helped transform Bihar's image. Schemes such as Jeevika Didi and 50% reservation for women in local bodies have built long-term loyalty of women voters.

Known for his political flexibility, Kumar has often switched alliances between the BJP and the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD). In 2013, he ended his alliance with the BJP. In 2015, he joined the Mahagathbandhan (Grand Alliance) with the RJD and Congress, becoming Chief Minister again. However, this alliance was short-lived, and in 2017, he returned to the NDA. In 2020, he won the election again and became Chief Minister for the seventh time. Then, in August 2022, Kumar broke away from the BJP-led NDA again, resigned as CM, and formed a new coalition with the RJD, Congress, and Left parties. In January 2024, he once again rejoined the NDA, taking oath as CM for the ninth time.

Kumar's frequent changes in alliances have earned him the moniker "Paltu Ram" (turncoat), but they also highlight his ability to remain relevant in Bihar's complex political landscape. Despite these shifts, he has maintained a focus on governance, development, and law and order, earning him the title "Sushashan Babu" (Good Governance Man).

As Bihar headed to the polls in the 2025 elections, Kumar faced a crucial test of his political staying power. He aimed to retain his post within the BJP-led NDA, despite facing challenges from rivals like Tejashwi Yadav and concerns about anti-incumbency. Some analysts suggested that the BJP might push for its own Chief Minister if it performs better than the JD(U) in the election.

Nitish Kumar's career demonstrates a remarkable ability to navigate Bihar's complex political environment. Whether this latest alliance will endure remains to be seen, but his enduring presence in Bihar politics underscores his position as a master of political survival.