Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced a one-year grace period for autorickshaw, taxi, and cab drivers to acquire a working knowledge of functional Marathi.The decision follows a meeting between the Chief Minister and a delegation of transport union representatives led by Haji Arfat Shaikh.
Union members requested additional time, noting that many migrant drivers come from diverse age groups and left formal education years ago.
No punitive or legal action will be taken against any commercial driver for lacking proficiency in Marathi during this 12-month period.
The state government will organize dedicated basic Marathi learning classes and provide free study materials and literature to help drivers learn the language.Scope of Requirement: The government clarified that drivers are only expected to learn basic, work-related communication for everyday passenger interactions rather than complete fluency.
The mandatory Marathi proficiency rule for commercial drivers was earlier emphasized by Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik under amended motor vehicle regulations. After 8recent compliance checks and notices issued to drivers who failed initial language screenings, unions raised livelihood concerns.
The state government has now balanced the promotion of the official language with practical support, ensuring drivers have adequate resources and time to comply without facing license or permit suspensions.
News Edit KV Raman
