The era when Nitish was a direct hit in Pakistan, the echo of 'Bihar model' till Islamabad

Patna. There was a time when Gujarat model was discussed in the country. At that time, the CM of Gujarat was Narendra Modi and on the basis of this model, his image was created and grew. Later this image became so widespread that he became the Prime Minister of the country and today he is at the top among the most popular leaders in the world. When Narendra Modi was the CM of Gujarat, the Bihar model was also discussed a lot. After 2005, under the leadership of Nitish Kumar, Bihar had emerged as a model state of good governance. His administrative reforms, better law and order system of the state, participation of women in socio-political life and his model of economic growth were much talked about. Along with this, there was a lot of development in sectors like agriculture and Bihar remained at the top in growth rate for many years continuously. Today, when Nitish Kumar, who follows the ‘development model’ in Bihar, has become the CM of Bihar for the 10th time, then know the story of that period when it had been 7 years of Nitish’s good governance in Bihar, its echo was being heard in Pakistan also.

Enthusiasm in welcome, expectations beyond politics

When the then Chief Minister of Bihar Nitish Kumar reached Pakistan on 8 November 2012, he was welcomed not just as a formal visit, but as a leader who had changed the direction of a state by fighting poverty, crime and backwardness. The posters put up at Karachi Airport read – “Welcome Nitish Kumar – Architect of Bihar’s Growth.” This was not just a welcome, but a sign that Indian politics was generating discussion and curiosity across borders. At some places, slogans demanding ‘formula for governance’ were also seen. This was the period when Pakistani media was constantly asking – “What is Bihar Model after all?”

The story of Nitish Kumar, Bihar Model and Pakistan visit, where the echo of good governance and development was heard across the border also.

Meeting with Imran Khan: Development formula over tea

The most talked about moment of this visit was the informal meeting with Imran Khan. The conversation between the two was not like any formal protocol but like a strategic coffee-conversation between two politicians. Then Imran had told Nitish, you have given pace of development to the poor state, this is inspiring for Pakistan. This statement of Imran Khan became the headline of newspapers of both India and Pakistan.

Bridge of History, Culture and Emotions

During the tour, Nitish Kumar also visited Mohenjodaro, Taxila, Gurudwara Dera Sahib and Data Darbar. In Lahore, a local elder hugged him and said, you have come from Patna, not from India – our shared history begins there. That is, somewhere this tour had also become a story of cultural bonding beyond political boundaries.

From politics to business, discussion on Bihar model

In meetings with business groups and MPs in Karachi and Islamabad, there was a barrage of questions – how did crime reduce in Bihar? How did women get 50% reservation? How should road and education reforms go together? Nitish said in reply- Good governance is the main engine of development.

In 2012, Bihar CM Nitish Kumar had talked to the Governor of Sindh province, Dr. Ishrat Ul Abad Khan during his visit to Pakistan.

Good governance is the real engine of development

Nitish told the growth story of Bihar to the leaders of Sindh and Punjab. He said, good governance is the mantra of progress. In an interactive session in Karachi, parliamentary members asked questions and Nitish emphasized on connecting Bihar’s handicrafts, agriculture and IT with the Pakistani market. Pakistani businessmen were impressed by Nitish Kumar’s speech.

This was not just a political trip

The tour started on 8 November 2012 and ended on 16 November. While returning to Punjab Wagah Border, Nitish said – This journey was not just a political but a human experience. The visit was successful, Pakistan’s hosting was unforgettable. In the eyes of experts, this visit of Nitish Kumar created a rare scene in both the countries, where an Indian leader became a symbol of respect and popularity across the border.