- By Chetna Shree
- Wed, 29 Apr 2026 10:09 AM (IST)
- Source:JND
Marathi Mandate: The Maharashtra Transport Department will launch a statewide drive from May 1 to August 15 to enforce its mandate requiring auto-rickshaw and taxi drivers to have a basic knowledge of Marathi. Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik announced that a four-member committee, led by Additional Transport Commissioner Ravindra Gaikwad, will oversee the 100-day campaign.
To encourage compliance, the department has assured that no punitive action will be taken during this period against drivers solely for not knowing Marathi.
Pilot Enforcement Drive In Mira-Bhayandar
Citing a recent enforcement drive in Mira-Bhayandar, Sarnaik said that of the 3,443 auto-rickshaws inspected, 565 drivers were unable to demonstrate basic knowledge of Marathi. He, however, noted that many of these drivers expressed a willingness to learn the language.
Union Support For Marathi Mandate
Speaking at a press conference, the minister said that representatives of auto-rickshaw and taxi unions have expressed their support for the decision. He said there was a broad consensus that drivers operating in Maharashtra should have a basic knowledge of Marathi, Mid-Day reported.
Inspections Across 59 RTOs
All 59 Regional Transport Offices (RTOs) across the state have been directed to conduct inspections throughout the campaign period, with authorities taking action against drivers found violating transport rules or operating illegally.
However, the minister clarified that not knowing Marathi solely will not result in license cancellation.
Training And Certification Initiatives
To support compliance, the Transport Department will provide language training facilities at RTO offices in collaboration with organisations such as the Konkan Marathi Sahitya Parishad and Mumbai Marathi Sahitya Sangh.
Drivers will be provided with booklets and e-books to support their learning, and those who complete the training will receive a certification from the state government, which will be required during license renewal.
Monitoring And Evaluation
The committee, headed by Gaikwad, will conduct daily and weekly reviews of the campaign, issuing specific directives to RTOs based on inspection data to ensure uniform implementation across the state. Sarnaik emphasised that while the government would take firm action against violators, it is committed to providing drivers with the necessary opportunities to comply with the language mandate.
A comprehensive report of the 100-day drive will be submitted on August 16, which will guide future policy decisions.