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Maharashtra CM orders auto and cab drivers to learn Marathi within a year
✍️ curlytales.com
🗓 28 Aug 2026, 08:26 AM
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The Maharashtra chief minister has mandated that all auto‑rickshaw and cab drivers acquire proficiency in Marathi within twelve months.
Mumbai, Aug 28 (Reuters) – Maharashtra's chief minister announced a new language directive requiring every auto‑rickshaw and cab driver in the state to become proficient in Marathi within a twelve‑month period. The policy, unveiled at a press conference in the state capital, aims to improve communication between drivers and passengers and to promote the regional language in everyday commerce.
The deadline will start from the date of the announcement, and drivers will be expected to pass a basic Marathi proficiency test administered by the transport department. Those who fail to meet the requirement after the stipulated period may face suspension of their commercial licences until they demonstrate the required language skills.
Transport officials said the government will facilitate the learning process by partnering with language institutes and offering subsidised courses for drivers. The move aligns with broader state efforts to integrate Marathi more fully into public services and civic life.
While the directive has drawn support from language advocacy groups, some driver unions have expressed concerns about the short timeline and the logistical challenges of enrolling thousands of workers in language programmes. The transport department has pledged to address these issues through phased implementation and financial assistance where needed.
The deadline will start from the date of the announcement, and drivers will be expected to pass a basic Marathi proficiency test administered by the transport department. Those who fail to meet the requirement after the stipulated period may face suspension of their commercial licences until they demonstrate the required language skills.
Transport officials said the government will facilitate the learning process by partnering with language institutes and offering subsidised courses for drivers. The move aligns with broader state efforts to integrate Marathi more fully into public services and civic life.
While the directive has drawn support from language advocacy groups, some driver unions have expressed concerns about the short timeline and the logistical challenges of enrolling thousands of workers in language programmes. The transport department has pledged to address these issues through phased implementation and financial assistance where needed.