Maharashtra launches Practical Marathi drive for drivers

The Maharashtra government on Tuesday officially paused immediate license cancellations for non-compliance by licensed auto-rickshaw and taxi drivers over the use of the Marathi language.

While the rule remains mandatory, the focus from May 1 (Maharashtra Day) to August 15 will be on a “Special Permit Inspection Drive” across all 59 RTO offices to survey drivers and



verify proficiency. This was announced by Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik after meeting with transport department officials.

He clarified that the Marathi language mandate for auto-rickshaw and taxi drivers in Maharashtra is entering a critical phase, with a shift from strict immediate enforcement to a more structured, training-focused rollout starting May 1st (Maharashtra Day).