The upcoming campaign aims to strengthen implementation across the state.
Maharashtra Mandates Marathi for Taxi and Auto Drivers from May 1, Says Minister
Maharashtra is set to introduce a mandatory requirement for all licensed auto-rickshaw and taxi drivers to have basic knowledge of the Marathi language from May 1, officials said.
The decision was announced by Cabinet Minister Pratap Sarnaik, who stated that the Motor Transport Department will conduct a statewide inspection drive through its 59 regional and sub-regional offices to ensure compliance with licensing norms.
According to the minister, the rule requiring knowledge of the local language for commercial driving licences already exists but has not been strictly enforced in practice. The upcoming campaign aims to strengthen implementation across the state.
As part of the verification process, authorities will assess whether drivers are able to read and write Marathi. Those who fail to meet the requirement may face cancellation of their licences, Sarnaik said.
The enforcement drive is scheduled to begin on Maharashtra Day and will cover transport operators across urban and rural regions of the state.
Officials said the requirement forms part of existing licensing norms that mandate knowledge of the local language for commercial drivers, and will be enforced through regular inspections.
