Mumbai: Transport minister Pratap Sarnaik has announced a statewide Marathi language education drive for non-Marathi auto-rickshaw and taxi drivers, aimed at ensuring they can speak, understand and use Marathi confidently in everyday passenger interactions. The programme will be implemented through the transport department, with Sarnaik urging auto-taxi unions and associations to take proactive responsibility in mobilising drivers and supporting the rollout.
Training Details and Schedule
Drivers will be offered four hours of offline training daily, supplemented by online learning options. To improve access, special classes will be conducted at transport department branch offices. The first phase will begin in Mumbai, Thane, Dombivli, Navi Mumbai, Vasai-Virar, Palghar and Dahanu, before expanding further across the state.
Collaboration and Teacher Recruitment
To strengthen delivery, the government will collaborate with cultural and voluntary bodies, including the Konkan Marathi Sahitya Parishad and Mumbai Marathi Sahitya Sangh. Around 4,500 teachers are expected to be appointed for the campaign and will receive honoraria, with the minister stating that budgetary provisions have already been made.
Assessment and Certification
After completing the course, drivers will face a viva voce assessment, and those who qualify will receive an official government certificate. An AI-based online app is also being introduced to help drivers learn Hindi-to-Marathi translation, common phrases, sentence patterns and daily conversation through guided practice.
Focus on Practical Communication
The plan focuses on practical, transaction-oriented Marathi rather than formal grammar, with a strong emphasis on conversational ability needed for routes, fares, complaints, emergencies and basic courtesy exchanges.
Minister's Statement and Deadline
Sarnaik said the initiative will improve passenger-driver communication and encourage wider use of Marathi in public services. He also set August 15, 2026 as the final deadline for learning Marathi, stating that no extension will be granted.
