The Maharashtra government is planning to offer basic Marathi language training to autorickshaw and cab drivers who do not speak the language. This initiative follows the state's decision to make knowledge of Marathi mandatory for drivers, with non-compliance potentially leading to licence cancellation.
Training Initiative Announced
State transport minister Pratap Sarnaik announced on Thursday that during a meeting with representatives from the Mumbai Marathi Sahitya Sangh and the Konkan Marathi Sahitya Parishad, both organisations expressed willingness to help teach functional Marathi. A curriculum will be developed soon to impart basic working knowledge of the language to drivers, Sarnaik said.
Background of the Decision
Earlier this month, the government announced that drivers must know Marathi, warning that action would be taken against those who do not comply. While the decision has had limited impact in Pune, several auto and cab unions, mainly in Mumbai, called for a statewide strike on May 4 in protest.
Free and Accessible Classes
Sarnaik explained that the training initiative is intended to make learning Marathi accessible and stress-free. The Konkan Marathi Sahitya Parishad has offered to conduct classes through its 72 branches, while the Mumbai Marathi Sahitya Sangh plans to provide online lessons through volunteer teachers. The training will be free of charge.
Statewide Inspection Drive
The minister also announced that, starting May 1 (Maharashtra Day), authorities will launch a statewide drive to inspect the licences of autorickshaw and taxi drivers. In addition to checking regulatory compliance, officials will assess whether drivers have a basic understanding of Marathi. Sarnaik clarified that the initiative aims to address communication issues faced by passengers and to ease concerns among non-Marathi-speaking drivers.
Mixed Reactions
The move has received mixed reactions. Keshav Kshirsagar, president of Baghtoy Rickshawaala Union, said the proposed strike is unlikely to impact Pune, where most drivers already know the language. "If Marathi is so important, enforcement should begin at higher levels rather than targeting drivers who are already under financial strain," he said.
A cab driver from Madhya Pradesh, currently working in Pune, also expressed concern. "Many drivers do not know Marathi but communication is usually manageable since most locals understand Hindi. It would be difficult for drivers to find time to learn a new language considering our long working hours," he said.
