JD(U) leader and Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar meeting 'Jeevika Didis' during the poll campaign. (Photo: X/@NitishKumar) Show Quick Read Summary is AI Generated. Newsroom Reviewed

Bihar has seen a repeat of Maharashtra, as much to the shock of pollsters, the ruling National Democratic Alliance has totally annihilated the Opposition. While the NDA win was on the cards, none of the pre- or post-election surveys projected the coalition to win around 200 of the 243 seats.

So, what connects the NDA's tsunami-like mandate in Bihar with its historic victory in Maharashtra last year? The answer, say analysts, primarily lies in the direct-benefit-transfer (DBT) schemes that connect with women voters.

In Maharashtra, it was the Ladki Bahin Scheme that ensured Rs 1,500 a month deposit

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