Nitish Kumar, a name synonymous with Bihar politics, has been a driving force in Indian politics for decades. From his humble beginnings to becoming the Chief Minister of Bihar multiple times, his journey is nothing short of inspiring. Let’s dive into Nitish Kumar biography, exploring his education, political entry, numerous terms as a CM, family, controversies, and net worth.
Early Life and Education
Nitish Kumar was born on March 1, 1951, in Bakhtiarpur, a small town in the Patna district of Bihar. His father, Kaviraj Ram Lakhan Singh, was a freedom fighter and an Ayurvedic practitioner, while his mother, Parmeshwari Devi, was a homemaker. Growing up in a modest household, Nitish imbibed values of hard work, simplicity, and dedication from an early age.
Nitish Kumar completed his schooling at a local school in Bakhtiarpur. He was a bright student, always curious and eager to learn. After finishing school, he moved to Patna to pursue higher education. He enrolled in Patna Science College, where he completed his Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering. His engineering background set him apart from many of his contemporaries in politics, giving him a unique perspective on problem-solving and governance.
Political Entry
Nitish Kumar’s foray into politics began during the turbulent 1970s. Inspired by the socialist ideals of Jayaprakash Narayan, he joined the JP Movement, which sought to bring about social and political reforms in India. This movement played a significant role in shaping his political ideology and commitment to public service.
In 1974, Nitish Kumar was elected as a member of the Bihar Legislative Assembly from the Harnaut constituency. This marked the beginning of his long and illustrious political career. He quickly rose through the ranks of the Janata Party, showcasing his leadership skills and dedication to the people of Bihar.
First Term as Chief Minister
Nitish Kumar’s first taste of power came in 1989 when he was elected to the Lok Sabha, the lower house of India’s Parliament, from the Barh constituency. Over the years, he held various ministerial positions in the central government, including the Minister of Railways, Surface Transport, and Agriculture. His tenure as the Railway Minister is particularly noteworthy for the numerous reforms he introduced, which significantly improved the efficiency and safety of Indian Railways.
In 2000, Nitish Kumar became the Chief Minister of Bihar for the first time, albeit for a brief period of seven days. This short stint was a precursor to his more significant and impactful terms as CM.
Second Term
Nitish Kumar’s second term as Chief Minister began in 2005 when his party, the Janata Dal (United), in alliance with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), won a decisive victory in the Bihar state elections. This term marked the beginning of a new era for Bihar, often referred to as the “Nitish Era.”
During this term, Nitish focused on improving the state’s infrastructure, law and order, and governance. His efforts to tackle corruption and improve public services earned him widespread acclaim. Under his leadership, Bihar saw significant improvements in road connectivity, healthcare, and education. The state, which was once notorious for its lawlessness, witnessed a remarkable turnaround, with crime rates dropping and a renewed sense of security among the citizens.
Third Term
Nitish Kumar was re-elected as Chief Minister in 2010, riding on the wave of his successful governance. This term was characterized by a continued focus on development and good governance. Nitish introduced several welfare schemes aimed at empowering women, improving healthcare, and providing better education opportunities.
One of his flagship programs, the “Mukhyamantri Balika Cycle Yojana,” provided bicycles to schoolgirls, significantly boosting female education and reducing dropout rates. His commitment to social justice and development endeared him to the people of Bihar, cementing his reputation as a visionary leader.
Fourth Term
Nitish Kumar’s fourth term as Chief Minister began in 2015 after the Grand Alliance, comprising the JD(U), Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), and Congress, won the state elections. However, this term was marked by political instability and controversies. The alliance with RJD, led by Lalu Prasad Yadav, proved to be tumultuous, with frequent clashes and disagreements.
In 2017, Nitish Kumar resigned as Chief Minister, citing differences with the RJD over corruption charges against Lalu Prasad Yadav’s family. However, he soon returned to power, forming a new alliance with the BJP. This political maneuvering showcased his astuteness and ability to navigate the complex landscape of Bihar politics.
Fifth Term
In the 2020 Bihar state elections, Nitish Kumar was re-elected as Chief Minister for the fifth time. This term has been challenging, with the COVID-19 pandemic posing unprecedented hurdles. Nitish’s government has focused on managing the health crisis, ensuring the safety of the citizens, and reviving the state’s economy.
Despite the challenges, Nitish continues to work towards his vision of a developed and prosperous Bihar. His commitment to development, social justice, and good governance remains unwavering, as he strives to steer the state through these difficult times.
Family Life
Nitish Kumar’s personal life has been relatively private compared to his public persona. He was married to Manju Kumari Sinha, a school teacher, who passed away in 2007. The couple has one son, Nishant Kumar, who prefers to stay away from the political limelight.

Despite his busy political career, Nitish is known to be a devoted father and values his son immensely. His simplicity and down-to-earth nature are reflected in his personal interactions and lifestyle.
Nitish Kumar Biography: Controversies
Like any long-serving politician, Nitish Kumar’s career has not been without controversies. One of the significant controversies was his alliance with the RJD in 2015, which was seen as a betrayal by many of his supporters, given his earlier stance against Lalu Prasad Yadav’s alleged corrupt practices.
Another controversy arose in 2017 when Nitish resigned as CM, only to return to power within hours by aligning with the BJP. This move was criticized as opportunistic and raised questions about his political integrity.
Nitish Kumar has also faced criticism over handling certain issues like the Muzaffarpur shelter home case, where several girls were sexually abused. The incident brought significant negative attention to his administration and raised concerns about the state’s law and order situation.
Despite these controversies, Nitish Kumar has managed to maintain his political relevance and continues to be a dominant figure in Bihar politics.
Nitish Kumar Net Worth
Nitish Kumar’s total assets are around ₹1.64 crores. His assets include a house in Patna, agricultural land, and savings in various forms. Known for his simple lifestyle, Nitish has always maintained a low profile regarding his personal wealth. His modest net worth reflects his commitment to public service and his focus on governance rather than personal enrichment.
Conclusion
Nitish Kumar’s journey from a small town in Bihar to becoming one of the most influential political leaders in India is a testament to his dedication, resilience, and vision. Over the years, he has faced numerous challenges, navigated political complexities, and steered Bihar towards development and progress.
His multiple terms as Chief Minister have seen significant transformations in the state’s infrastructure, governance, and social indicators. Despite the controversies and political turbulence, Nitish Kumar remains a pivotal figure in Indian politics, with a legacy that continues to inspire and influence the future of Bihar.
Nitish Kumar’s story is not just about political success; it’s about perseverance, commitment to public service, and an unwavering belief in the power of good governance. As he continues to lead Bihar, his journey serves as an inspiring example for future generations of leaders.
Nitish Kumar biography details will be updated as new highlights emerge in his life.
Disclaimer: This article is based on publicly available information and sources believed to be reliable. This post is for informational purposes only. Readers are encouraged to verify the information independently.