Maharashtra has long faced persistent water scarcity due to climatic variability, uneven rainfall distribution, and intensive groundwater exploitation, resulting in recurring droughts and livelihood insecurity. This study examines the evolution of water governance in Maharashtra with particular attention to the leadership of Sudhakarrao Naik during his tenure as Chief Minister (1991–1993). Drawing on academic literature, government reports, and policy evaluations, the paper situates Naik’s role within broader institutional and policy transformations rather than attributing outcomes solely to individual leadership. The review highlights how pre-existing mechanisms, such as the Employment Guarantee Scheme and groundwater monitoring institutions, laid the groundwork for decentralized conservation approaches. Naik’s contribution is analyzed primarily as an agenda-setting intervention that elevated water conservation from a technical concern to a political and administrative priority.