Out of the names being discussed for Bihar’s next CM, BJP leader and shooter Shreyasi Singh has emerged as a surprising contender after Nitish Kumar moved to the Rajya Sabha

Delhi/Patna: As Nitish Kumar files his nomination for the Rajya Sabha today, attention has quickly shifted to one big question in Bihar politics: Who will become the next CM of Bihar?

Among several contenders, 33-year-old BJP leader and sport shooter Shreyasi Singh has suddenly become a surprising name in the race. If she gets the top post, she could become one of the youngest Chief Ministers in India in decades, even younger than current benchmarks.

Her story is unusual. In 2018, at the Commonwealth Games 2018 in Australia, Shreyasi won a bronze medal in trap shooting, bringing pride to Bihar. Now, eight years later, the same athlete is being discussed as a possible Chief Minister after Nitish Kumar’s move to Parliament.

Within the NDA alliance, nine names are being discussed as possible successors—five women and four men. Among them, Shreyasi is seen as the young and modern face who could represent a new generation of leadership in Bihar.

From Shooting Champion to Rising Political Leader

Shreyasi Singh was born on November 29, 1992, in Patna. She comes from a political family. Her father, Digvijay Singh, was a well-known leader, and politics has long been part of her background.
However, Shreyasi first made her name in sports.

Major achievements:

• 2014: Won a silver medal in trap shooting at the Asian Games 2014.
• 2018: Won a bronze medal at the Commonwealth Games 2018.
• 2019: Received the prestigious Arjuna Award.
• 2025: Won the Jamui assembly election with a strong vote share and entered the Bihar cabinet.

After entering politics, she became known for her work in sports and youth programs. As minister, she also proposed initiatives to improve sports infrastructure in Bihar and help athletes reach international competitions.

Nitish Kumar’s Exit Opens the Race

Nitish Kumar has ruled Bihar for many years and built a strong political legacy. Now, by moving to the Rajya Sabha, he has opened the door for a new leader.

The ruling NDA alliance has 215 seats in the Bihar assembly, and the BJP is now the largest party in the coalition. Because of Bihar’s caste dynamics, party strategists are carefully considering caste balance, gender representation, and political experience while choosing the next CM.

Several strong leaders are competing for the post. One of the biggest contenders is Samrat Choudhary, who has significant organizational support. Senior leaders like Renu Devi are also in the discussion.

Shreyasi Singh, however, represents something different: youth, a clean public image, and a modern political profile.

Could She Become One of India’s Youngest Chief Ministers?

If Shreyasi becomes Chief Minister at 33 years old, she would join the list of very young leaders who reached the top position early.

Some examples include:

• Prem Khandu Thungon – became CM at age 29 in 1975.
• Pema Khandu – became CM at 37 in 2016.
• Atishi – became CM at 43 in 2024.

At 33, Shreyasi would be younger than many current Chief Ministers and could represent a new generation of leadership.

Strengths and Challenges

Her strengths:
• Popular sports career and national recognition
• Clean image with no major controversies
• Appeal among young voters
• Ability to connect with urban and educated voters

Challenges she may face:
• Bihar politics is strongly influenced by caste equations
• She belongs to a smaller upper-caste voter group
• Some rivals have more administrative and political experience

Because of this, many analysts believe she could still get an important cabinet role even if she is not chosen as Chief Minister.

Public Reaction and Political Debate

On social media, many young voters are supporting the idea of a young leader. Hashtags related to Shreyasi Singh have begun trending online.

Supporters say a young Chief Minister could bring fresh ideas, focus on development, and connect with Bihar’s large youth population. Critics, however, argue that Bihar’s complex politics requires experienced leadership.

Also Read on jabalpur today: Who Will Be Bihar’s Next Chief Minister? 4 Women and 4 Men Lead the Race After Nitish Kumar’s Rajya Sabha Move