It’s easy to spot a few familiar patterns — and some surprises — here. As Maharashtra confronts a water shortage after a weak monsoon, many are comparing the situation with 1972, when the state experienced its toughest drought on record. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has expressed concerns that “this year’s drought could be worse than 1972.” But there’s a bit more to it.

Back in 1972, three successive years of poor monsoons led to a real crisis. Things are different this time: Last year brought plenty of early rain, topping up all the dams and reservoirs. In 1972, it took three years of failed rains to spark trouble; more than half a century later, just one bad season has left the state in a spot of bother. This neatly sums up how things have shifted in a state once celebrated for its farming progress.

The 1972 drought brought out the best in politicians who truly cared about ordinary people. Troubled by the harsh conditions, Vitthal Sakharam Page, then chairman of the state Legislative Council, asked his wife how much cash she had at home. Mrs Page found just about Rs 700. He then asked how many labourers that might support, and she replied, “Around 10 for two weeks.” A dedicated Gandhian, Page quickly raised the matter with the then chief minister, Vasantrao Naik, calling for Rs 100 crore to help the state’s poor. Naik invited Krishnarao Dhulap of the Peasants and........

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