Patna: Shreyasi Singh, a gold medalist at the Commonwealth Games and BJP MLA from Jamui, was sworn in as a minister in Bihar’s newly formed NDA government on Wednesday, marking an important milestone in the state’s political and sporting narrative. The 34-year-old, daughter of former Union Minister Digvijay Singh, took oath alongside Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, who commenced his 10th term in office. The event at Gandhi Maidan in Patna was graced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, BJP President JP Nadda, and chief ministers from various states. Singh, who comes from Gidhaur in Jamui district, is rooted in a family with a strong political lineage.
Her father held the position of Union Minister for Railways and Commerce, her mother Putul Kumari is a former MP, and her grandfather Kumar Surendra Singh was the head of the National Rifle Association. Singh has established a dual legacy in sports and politics. As a shooter specializing in double trap, she has represented India at prestigious levels. She secured gold at the 2018 Commonwealth Games in Gold Coast, silver at the 2014 Glasgow Games, and bronze in the team event at the 2014 Asian Games. An Arjuna Award recipient, she is set to compete in the 2024 Paris Olympics, becoming Bihar’s first Olympic shooter. Her national accolades include a gold medal at the 61st National Shooting Championship.
Singh’s political journey has also been notable. She joined the BJP in 2020 and won the Jamui Assembly seat in her inaugural election, defeating the RJD candidate by a margin exceeding 41,000 votes. In the 2025 assembly elections, she expanded her lead to 54,498 votes, showcasing her increasing influence in state politics. Her close collaboration with Nitish Kumar has been well acknowledged. In the new cabinet, Singh joins senior leaders like Samrat Choudhary and Vijay Kumar Sinha among 20 ministers. Analysts anticipate her portfolio will emphasize sports and youth welfare, linking her athletic accomplishments with governance. Her swearing-in signifies not just a personal achievement but also a larger trend of new-generation leaders emerging in Bihar’s political and cultural landscape.
Singh’s transition from Commonwealth gold medalist to minister is viewed as a source of inspiration for many, exemplifying how sporting excellence can lead to leadership and community service.
