Patna: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to arrive in Patna at approximately 11:10 AM today for Nitish Kumar’s swearing-in ceremony, which will feature an unusually large assembly of senior NDA leaders and chief ministers from nearly 20 states. The main event at Gandhi Maidan will last around 40 minutes, from 11:30 AM to 12:10 PM, under a comprehensive three-tier security framework. Officials indicated that Gandhi Maidan has been fortified for the occasion, with three stages currently under construction. The main stage will accommodate the prime minister, governor, chief minister, and other high-ranking officials. A second stage is designated for VIP seating, while a third is being prepared for cultural performances.
Chartered flights began arriving at Patna airport on Wednesday, with Uttar Pradesh’s Deputy Chief Minister, Brajesh Pathak, and Madhya Pradesh’s Chief Minister, Mohan Yadav, among the early arrivals. Later in the evening, Maharashtra’s Chief Minister, Devendra Fadnavis, and Minister Eknath Shinde arrived in Patna on separate chartered flights. More than a dozen chartered planes are anticipated to arrive between Thursday morning and 1 PM, bringing chief ministers, cabinet ministers, and other senior leaders from BJP-led states. Airport security has been enhanced, with additional units stationed throughout the area. Three dedicated helipads have been constructed inside Gandhi Maidan toward Kargil Chowk for PM Modi’s arrival, prepared under the oversight of the SPG.
A comprehensive rehearsal took place on Wednesday with the presence of senior police and administrative officials. PM Modi will travel by helicopter from Patna airport to Gandhi Maidan and is expected to stay at the venue for about an hour. Authorities noted that the arrangements reflect both the magnitude of political involvement and the increased security measures surrounding this event, marking Nitish Kumar’s 10th swearing-in as Bihar’s chief minister.