Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik announced that the Transport Department will implement a comprehensive Marathi language education campaign to enable non-Marathi-speaking rickshaw and taxi drivers across the state to speak, understand, and use the language effectively in their daily work. He also appealed to rickshaw and taxi driver associations to take the initiative and actively participate in this effort.
During a special meeting held at the Ministry, detailed discussions were held regarding the Marathi language education initiative with representatives from various rickshaw and taxi driver associations across the state. Transport Commissioner Rajesh Narvekar, along with other concerned senior officials and office bearers of various associations, were present at the meeting.
Minister Sarnaik said that four hours of online training will be provided daily to help drivers master practical Marathi. Special emphasis will be placed on developing conversational skills in Marathi, and an online training facility has also been made available. To ensure that the training is both effective and accessible, special classes will be held at various branch offices. Initially, these training classes will begin in Mumbai, Thane, Dombivali, Navi Mumbai, Vasai-Virar, Palghar, and Dahanu areas. Additionally, Marathi training will be provided through organizations such as the Konkan Marathi Sahitya Parishad, the Mumbai Marathi Sahitya Sangh, and various non-governmental organizations (NGOs). Approximately 4,500 trainers will be appointed for this initiative and provided with honorariums. Minister Sarnaiik also stated that the necessary funds for this project have already been allocated by the government.
Upon completion of the training, an oral exam will be conducted for drivers, and successful candidates will be awarded an official certificate from the government. Additionally, an Artificial Intelligence (AI)-based online application will be made available to help drivers translate from Hindi to Marathi and learn simple Marathi conversation skills. Through this app, drivers will be able to easily learn Marathi vocabulary, sentence structures, and everyday conversation skills, making Marathi language use more accessible. Minister Sarnaik expressed confidence that this initiative will facilitate more effective communication between passengers and drivers, and will also significantly promote the promotion and use of the Marathi language. He further clarified that the deadline for learning the Marathi language is August 15, 2026, and no further extensions will be granted.
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