Bihar's NDA government is set to expand its Cabinet on Thursday (May 7, 2026) at Gandhi Maidan in Patna, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, BJP president Nitin Gadkari, and other senior leaders expected to attend. The event, scheduled for 12:10 p.m., follows intense political consultations among JD(U) leaders in Patna on Wednesday, including meetings with Chief Minister Nitish Kumar.

Senior JD(U) figures, including national working president Sanjay Jha, held closed-door discussions, fueling speculation about the political debut of Nishant Kumar, the Chief Minister's son, who is currently on a statewide Sadbhav Yatra. While Nishant Kumar has previously expressed reluctance to take ministerial office, party leaders including State JD(U) president Umesh Kushwaha have voiced support for his inclusion. No official confirmation has been released on his induction.

Preparations for the ceremony are underway despite adverse weather, as the State Disaster Management Department issued a two-day alert with red, yellow, and orange warnings for Patna and other districts. Heavy rain and hailstorms caused waterlogging at Gandhi Maidan on Wednesday, prompting authorities to erect waterproof tents and pavilions. The district administration has designated special traffic routes to manage movement, particularly for airport and railway station commuters.

Security arrangements are extensive, with deployment of police personnel and bomb-sniffing dogs to ensure the safe arrival and movement of high-profile dignitaries. The state government is treating the event as a major political showcase, with saffron flags, welcome arches, and billboards being installed across Patna. The final list of inductees is expected to be announced ahead of the swearing-in.

The Cabinet expansion will proceed as scheduled on Thursday, with the swearing-in ceremony set for 12:10 p.m. at Gandhi Maidan. Official confirmation of the new ministers, including whether Nishant Kumar will be inducted, is expected during the event.