The 59-year-old BJP leader, who is popularly known as "mama" in Madhya Pradesh, outgoing Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan may be down but certainly not out. Chouhan, after submission of his resignation to Governor Anandiben Patel on Wednesday, announced that he would play a role of ''chowkidar'' to take on the new Congress government in the event of ''gadbadi'' (muddle or mess). In the same breath, Chouhan however, assured fullest cooperation to the Congress government for the betterment of state while playing a role of constructive opposition.

Even though he lacks the oratory skills and charishma of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Chouhan with his pro development pro poor image also hinted he was not sit quiet due to party's drubbing but ready to take up challenge for the BJP's revival and regain confidence of farmers, youths, minorities in the run up to the Lok Sabha elections which are six months away. He told party workers that the work starts from today and sought their cooperation.

It is quite interesting to note here that the entire party organisation strongly stood behind Chouhan with an assurance to support him to rebuild BJP. State party unit Rakesh Singh was categorical to recognise Chouhan's contribution to the party and for the development of Madhya Pradesh saying that he is and will continue to be the BJP leader.

State party unit also clearly indicated that the BJP will fight coming Lok Sabha poll under Chouhan's leadership.

Party insiders say Chouhan and BJP in general will have to go extra mile to win over the confidence of farmers. This is despite Chouhan led government succeeded in doubling the wheat production averaging 17% of India's production and increasing MP's share in total agricultural output to 8% in 2014 from 5% in 2003. His government's Bhavantar Bhugtan Yojana did not help BJP to cash in on and win over farmers.

However, Chouhan dropped sufficient hint to keep a vigil on Congress party fulfilling its poll promise to write off farm loan.

What is worrying for BJP and Chouhan is Congress winning a record 26 of 34 seats in Gwalior-Chambal region and winning 28 seats in Mahakaushal. The party will have to step up efforts to lure traditional supporters from these regions which are bastions of Congress leaders Jyotiraditya Scindia and Kamal Nath.