The upcoming state elections in Chhattisgarh, Mizoram, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Telangana are being referred to as the ‘semifinals’ before the general elections. However, these states have significant population and distinct electoral dynamics that make these elections crucial. These elections are unique in the sense that three out of the five states will witness a direct contest between the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Indian National Congress (INC). Mizoram and Telangana, on the other hand, have significant regional parties. In the northern and central states of Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, and Rajasthan, the BJP relies on the popularity of the central government and its pro-Hindutva ideology. The Congress is attempting to challenge the BJP by focusing on caste-based census and its own welfare schemes. The governments in power in these states have implemented welfare schemes that have been successful and are banking on these achievements to counter the BJP. In Madhya Pradesh, Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan has been in power for 18 years, but is currently facing discontent due to slow economic growth, rising social inequalities, and governance issues. However, the BJP has managed to maintain its support base due to its strong pro-Hindutva stance. The Congress is trying to challenge the BJP by capitalizing on the welfare schemes and the current dissatisfaction. In Rajasthan, although Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot’s government has been popular for its welfare schemes, the party MLAs have not shown the same confidence in him. While the grassroots support for the party is strong, the party’s organizational strength is currently uncertain. In Chhattisgarh, Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel has successfully managed the divergent opinions within the Congress party and has gained popularity for his welfare schemes such as farm loan waivers and support for agriculture and small-scale industries. The Congress is also attempting to raise regional pride in order to counter the BJP. Though the Congress-led United Progressive Alliance faced a setback in the 2019 general elections, it has managed to regain momentum in these three states. In Mizoram, Chief Minister Zoramthanga from the Mizo National Front has successfully managed to transform the traditional two-party system in the state to a triangular contest. While the incumbent Congress government in Manipur, headed by Chief Minister N. Biren Singh, is facing criticism for the prevailing law and order situation, it is working in favor of the BJP. Although these elections may not be the ‘semifinals,’ they are undoubtedly crucial for the two national parties, BJP and Congress.