Marathi Mandatory: Big News! Now Marathi is mandatory for ‘these’ drivers too, an important decision of the government

• Government’s Decisive Step towards Mandatory Marathi Knowledge;
• Major changes proposed in rules 4, 78 and 85 for motorists
• A provision was proposed to make it mandatory

Mumbai: To facilitate communication with passengers in the public transport system of the state of Marathi language Highlighting the importance, the Maharashtra government has taken a step towards an important decision. A proposal has been made to amend Rules 4, 78 and 85 of the Maharashtra Motor Vehicle Rules, 1989, under which a provision has been proposed to make working knowledge of Marathi language compulsory for motorists.

The transport commissioner of the state has submitted the proposal in this regard to the home department, accordingly the process of drawing up the draft notification is underway. As per the proposed changes, the licensing authority will be empowered to check the applicant’s character and background along with practical knowledge of Marathi language while granting permission to drive a public service vehicle.

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As per the new provision, practical knowledge of Marathi language will be tested while granting authorization to drive public service vehicles. Knowledge of Marathi language will be made mandatory in additional conditions of licenses for metered motor cab vehicles. In particular, it will be mandatory for auto rickshaw and taxi (motor cab) drivers to demonstrate knowledge of Marathi at the time of license renewal. This will make it easier for rickshaw and taxi drivers in the state to communicate with passengers in Marathi.

The process of seeking objections and suggestions has started

Objections and suggestions have been invited from citizens, organizations and related parties on these draft rules. All suggestions received within 30 days after publication of the notification will be considered by the government.

Efforts to improve services through coordination

Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik has expressed the hope that due to this decision, priority will be given to the local language in the public transport system, and the passengers will get more convenient and friendly service.

Minister of Transport, Government of Maharashtra Pratap Sarnaik has recently made an important announcement. He said that from May 1, 2026, Maharashtra Day, knowledge of Marathi language will be mandatory for all licensed autorickshaw and taxi drivers in the state. Drivers should be able to read, write and speak Marathi. If a driver fails to demonstrate basic language proficiency, his license will be revoked. A special drive will be launched across the state through 59 regional and sub-regional offices of the transport department to test the Marathi language proficiency of drivers. The initiative aims to improve communication with travelers and foster respect for the local language.

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