Mandating Marathi: Language Lessons for Maharashtra's Drivers

The Maharashtra government is set to enforce a rule mandating Marathi for all auto and taxi drivers starting May 1, according to Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik. A special curriculum is being developed to assist non-Marathi speakers in learning the language, ensuring smoother passenger-driver interactions across the state.

The directive, integral to Maharashtra's cultural identity, coincides with the recent designation of Marathi as a 'classical language.' Sarnaik emphasized that understanding and speaking Marathi should be a prerequisite for doing business within the state. Current implementation gaps, as noted by repeated complaints from passengers, underscore the necessity of this initiative.

The Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) has taken proactive steps by placing stickers on autorickshaws to highlight drivers proficient in Marathi. This move aims to boost the language's prominence while fostering passenger support for Marathi-speaking drivers. License inspections will also ensure compliance with the new language requirement.

(With inputs from agencies.)