‘Nayi Raftaar’: Endorsement Echo in Modi’s Praise for Nitish Leadership

Introduction

It's October 25, 2025, in Patna. Prime Minister Narendra Modi clearly put his support behind Chief Minister Nitish Kumar before the Bihar assembly elections. This was a clear sign that he believed in his leadership and hinted at his role as the state's main representative for the National Democratic Alliance (NDA).

Modi's Call to Arms

In front of big crowds in Begusarai and Samastipur, Modi said, "Under Nitish's leadership, NDA will break its own record in Bihar and get the biggest mandate ever." He said that the state is going to move forward with "nayi raftaar," or new energy, and that Nitish will be the one to bring about change and growth.

A Signal for Strategy

Modi's comments came the day after the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) chose Tejashwi Yadav as its candidate for chief minister. This made the race very important. Analysts see the Prime Minister's words as an implied support for Nitish's re-election as Bihar's CM. This makes Nitish the clear leader of the NDA ticket even before official announcements are made.

Focus on Development and Governance

Modi talked about how Nitish helped Bihar get out of what he called the "jungle raj" years when the RJD and Congress worked together. He said that the state is now "an attractive destination for investments," with chances for young people and local start-ups in every district.

Fire on the Opposition

In a jab at the opposition Indian National Development Alliance (INDIA) group, Modi called it a "coalition of castles" full of rivalries within itself. He said that the union ignored smaller partners and had a history of being corrupt and against Dalits, which were important issues for voters.

Visits with meaning and voter outreach

Before his big rally, Modi went to Karpoorigram to see the ancestral home of the famous socialist Karpoori Thakur. This was seen as a way to reach out to Bihar's Extremely Backward Classes (EBCs). The visit came after Thakur was given the Bharat Ratna award after his death.

What's Next?

In Bihar, the NDA seems to have picked its leader thanks to Modi's strong popular support for Nitish. The next few weeks will be very important for voters and people who follow politics because official announcements, campaign tactics, and candidate lists will become clearer.

Summary 

Modi backs Nitish’s leadership in Bihar, pledging “nayi raftaar” for growth and hinting at his front-runner status for the CM post in the upcoming elections.