Maharashtra Mandates Marathi Language Training for Non-Marathi Drivers

Mumbai, June 19: The Maharashtra government’s transport department has made a significant decision requiring non-Marathi auto and taxi drivers to possess basic knowledge of the Marathi language. The department clarified that after August 15, non-Marathi drivers without a Marathi language certificate will face legal and punitive actions under the rules.

Under the guidance of Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik, this initiative mandates that all non-Marathi auto and taxi drivers complete a four-hour ‘Marathi Language Communication Course’ between June 1 and August 15.

The Maharashtra State Marathi Language Department, along with the Konkan Marathi Sahitya Parishad and the Mumbai Marathi Sahitya Sangh, has been appointed as authorized expert organizations for this program. Through these organizations, drivers will receive free training in the Marathi language, and the transport department will only recognize certificates issued by them.

According to Ravi Gaikwad, Joint Commissioner of the Transport Department, this training campaign is being conducted on a large scale in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR). Approximately 71 study centers have been activated for this purpose. To strengthen the campaign, around 4,500 teachers from the Konkan Marathi Sahitya Parishad are involved in the training efforts. Additionally, all Regional Transport Offices (RTOs) are providing necessary support to the drivers.

The department stated that the primary objective of this course is to eliminate language barriers between passengers and drivers, improve service quality, and enhance professional opportunities for drivers. Basic knowledge of Marathi will facilitate more effective communication between passengers and drivers, easing daily operations.

A press release from the transport department mentioned that after August 15, non-Marathi drivers without an official certificate will face punitive and legal actions as per the regulations. However, the department clarified that their goal is not to penalize anyone but to encourage all drivers to take advantage of the free training and obtain their certificates in a timely manner.

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