The National Democratic Alliance (NDA) is poised for a decisive victory in Bihar, set to cross the 200-seat mark out of the 243-member assembly. Analysts point to a combination of welfare schemes, infrastructural development, and a clear focus on governance as key factors behind the alliance’s overwhelming mandate.

Welfare Schemes and Voter Outreach

A major contributor to the NDA’s success was the Mukhyamantri Rojgar Yojana, a flagship scheme of Chief Minister Nitish Kumar’s government aimed at promoting women’s empowerment and self-employment. Under the program, one woman from each family in Bihar receives an initial grant of ₹10,000 via Direct Benefit Transfer, with the possibility of additional financial assistance of up to ₹2 lakh in later phases. The scheme not only facilitated livelihood opportunities for women but also provided direct financial support that resonated strongly with voters.

Nitish Kumar highlighted the government’s long-standing focus on women’s empowerment during his election rallies. Over the past two decades, his administration had reserved seats for women in local bodies, provided job reservations, and now extended monetary aid to help women start their own businesses. “Women in particular have voted aggressively as they have benefitted in many ways — through reservations earlier and now through ₹10,000 under the Mukhyamantri Rojgar Yojana. CM Nitish Kumar’s credibility as a development-oriented leader too has worked wonders for the NDA,” observed Nawal Kishore Choudhary, former principal of Patna College.

Political analysts note that this voter support also reflected a rejection of dynastic politics, with citizens rewarding governance performance over legacy or party lineage. The electorate’s decision was widely seen as a referendum on the NDA’s development agenda, encompassing good roads, employment opportunities, and public services.

Infrastructure Development as a Game-Changer

The NDA’s emphasis on infrastructure development also played a pivotal role in swaying voters. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, and CM Nitish Kumar highlighted several high-profile projects during the campaign. Mega bridges over the Ganga in multiple districts, four-lane highways connecting Patna to Gaya, and the partial completion of the metro rail network in Patna were showcased as symbols of the government’s commitment to modernizing the state’s infrastructure.

Additionally, the government’s achievements in housing and energy contributed to its appeal. PM Modi highlighted that 60 lakh units under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) had been constructed over recent years, providing housing benefits to a substantial portion of Bihar’s population. Simultaneously, free electricity up to 125 units was provided to around two crore households starting September 1, further expanding the government’s reach and popularity among voters.

“The government schemes and sops announced by CM Kumar-led NDA government — such as free power of 125 units, ₹10,000 as monetary assistance to over 1 crore women under Rojgar Yojana, and expanded allowances for unemployed youths for two years — played a vital role in securing votes from a cross-section of society. Beyond this, the NDA’s development agenda successfully cornered the opposition Mahagathbandhan, which struggled to establish credibility on development issues despite trying to do so,” said R. Tiwary, an academician based in Patna.

Strategic Campaigning and Leadership

The NDA’s campaign combined welfare schemes with a robust governance narrative, leveraging Nitish Kumar’s long-term credibility as a clean and development-focused leader. Voters rewarded the perception of stability and consistent governance, as opposed to the uncertainties presented by the opposition’s internal conflicts and fragmented coalition.

The combination of cash transfers, welfare outreach, infrastructural achievements, and a coherent campaign strategy allowed the NDA to overcome any residual anti-incumbency sentiment. Women voters, in particular, formed a decisive voter base, responding positively to targeted schemes and inclusive governance initiatives.

Conclusion

The 2025 Bihar assembly elections demonstrate the NDA’s ability to translate a focused development agenda into electoral success. Strategic welfare schemes like the Mukhyamantri Rojgar Yojana, high-impact infrastructure projects, and governance credibility created a strong connection with voters across the state. By focusing on tangible benefits and inclusive development, the NDA managed not only to consolidate its core support but also to attract a broader base, ensuring a historic victory in Bihar.

The results underscore the growing importance of welfare-led and development-oriented campaigning in Indian state elections, particularly in electorates that are increasingly responsive to material improvements in living standards, infrastructure, and economic opportunities.