A network of free public libraries at 75 Maharashtra State Transport (MSRTC) bus depots was announced as part of commemorations for Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s 75th birthday. The initiative was positioned as a cultural measure through which Marathi literature would be promoted and accessible reading spaces would be provided to citizens. The plan was presented by Transport Minister and ST Corporation Chairman Pratap Sarnaik, and its conceptualisation was credited to MP Shrikant Shinde and senior BJP leader Vinay Sahasrabuddhe.
Under the programme, each participating depot was slated to host a “reading corner,” also described as a “Vachan Katta,” where literary engagement would be facilitated without charge. It was indicated that borrowing would be permitted after a simple registration with ST staff, and that returns would be managed on an honour-based system typical of public libraries. In this manner, access to literature and journalism was intended to be broadened for commuters and neighbourhood residents who pass through bus depots daily.
The core of each collection was said to be built around eminent Marathi authors and poets. Works by V.S. Khandekar, V.V. Shirwadkar (Kusumagraj), Narayan Surve, and P.L. Deshpande were planned to be made available, and novels by Namdeo Dhasal, Bhalchandra Nemade, Shankar Patil, V.P. Kale, and Vishwas Patil were also expected to be stocked. Through these selections, a connection to the literary heritage of Marathi was intended to be maintained while contemporary readership was to be encouraged.
Provision for students preparing for competitive examinations was explicitly included. Reference materials for the Maharashtra Public Service Commission (MPSC) and Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) were to be supplied so that aspirants could study during transit or in the vicinity of depots. Daily newspapers were to be provided as well, ensuring that current affairs coverage would be accessible alongside literary offerings. By combining classics, modern novels, exam references, and newsprint, a broad spectrum of readers was intended to be served.
The programme was linked to a wider directive from Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde that people-centric initiatives be undertaken to mark the Prime Minister’s milestone year. It was stated that the cultural tenor of the move had been aligned with efforts endorsed by PM Modi toward recognition of Marathi’s status, and that the establishment of reading spaces at transit hubs was conceived as a symbolic gift to the public. All services were stated to be free of cost, and simultaneous openings across all 75 depots were anticipated so that a unified launch could be observed statewide.
Through the initiative, bus depots were expected to be reframed as cultural touchpoints where literature and news could be engaged with informally. If implemented as outlined, an expansion of reading opportunities was expected, exam candidates were to be supported, and Marathi’s literary footprint was to be visibly strengthened in everyday public spaces.
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