Mumbai, June 19: The Maharashtra Transport Department has made it mandatory for non-Marathi auto-rickshaw and taxi drivers across the state to acquire basic Marathi language skills through a specially designed training programme. Drivers who fail to obtain the required certification by August 15, 2026, will face legal and disciplinary action.
Under the initiative, all non-Marathi auto and taxi drivers must complete a four-hour Marathi Language Communication Course between June 1 and August 15, 2026. The programme aims to improve communication between drivers and passengers and enhance the quality of public transport services.
The initiative is being implemented under the guidance of Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik. The Maharashtra State Marathi Language Department, Konkan Marathi Sahitya Parishad, and Mumbai Marathi Sahitya Sangh have been authorised to conduct the training and issue valid certificates. The course will be offered free of cost.
According to Transport Department Joint Commissioner Ravi Gaikwad, around 71 training centres have been set up across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR). More than 4,500 teachers have been engaged in the programme, while Regional Transport Offices (RTOs) are assisting drivers in completing the training.
The department said the move is intended to remove language barriers, facilitate smoother passenger interactions, and create better professional opportunities for drivers. Officials have urged all eligible drivers to complete the course and obtain certification before the deadline to avoid action.
