— Initiative Gains Cultural Push Under Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik
Mumbai, April 23: In a unique cultural initiative, literary figures are stepping forward to teach Marathi to non-Marathi commercial vehicle drivers across Maharashtra. The move comes as part of the state government’s effort to improve communication between drivers and passengers, with a strong emphasis on language learning through a friendly and engaging approach.
At a meeting convened by Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik, leading language experts offered to design and deliver simple, practical Marathi lessons tailored specifically for drivers of auto-rickshaws, taxis, and app-based services like Ola and Uber.
Institutions such as Mumbai Marathi Sahitya Sangh and Konkan Marathi Sahitya Parishad have taken the lead in this effort. While the Konkan Marathi Sahitya Parishad plans to roll out in-person classes through its 72 branches, Mumbai Marathi Sahitya Sangh will leverage its large network of volunteer teachers to provide free online training sessions.
The focus of the programme will be on everyday conversational Marathi phrases and expressions that drivers can immediately use while interacting with passengers. Importantly, the initiative aims to create a positive learning environment rather than impose strict enforcement, ensuring that drivers feel encouraged rather than pressured.
Minister Sarnaik highlighted that this initiative aligns with the recent recognition of Marathi as a “Classical Language,” adding cultural significance to the programme. He also noted that a statewide inspection drive on Maharashtra Day will include checking whether drivers possess basic Marathi communication skills.
By bringing writers and literary experts into the process, the government hopes to go beyond administrative measures and foster a deeper connection with the language. The initiative is expected to not only ease day-to-day communication but also promote respect for Marathi among non-native speakers.
