75% of Maharashtra Drivers Learn Marathi Ahead of August 15 Deadline

The Maharashtra government has proposed making working knowledge of Marathi compulsory for taxi, auto, and app-based cab drivers from August 15. Non-compliance with the Marathi language requirement may lead to suspension of driving licenses for up to three months or cancellation.

The state government has given non-Marathi-speaking auto-rickshaw and taxi drivers time from May 1 to August 15, 2026, to learn Marathi. According to Haji Arfat Sheikh, president of the Maharashtra BJP Transport Cell, around 75% of auto-rickshaw and taxi drivers across Maharashtra have acquired basic knowledge of Marathi.

The Maharashtra Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Rules, 2026, seek to amend the Maharashtra Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989, to make working knowledge of Marathi mandatory for drivers. The draft notification applies to drivers and permit holders of autorickshaws, taxis and app-based motor cabs fitted with electronic meters.

Over 1.10 lakh non-Marathi passenger vehicle drivers completed a four-hour-long Marathi training programme. The drivers who completed the training will receive certificates from Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on August 17.

## Why it matters The move aims to ensure effective communication between drivers and passengers and safer travel. Minister of State for Home and FDA Yogesh Kadam said additional time could be considered for drivers who need it. However, State Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik has stated that there will be no extension of the August 15 deadline for autorickshaw and taxi drivers to learn Marathi.

The BJP has demanded a 100-day extension for non-Marathi-speaking drivers to complete their language training. If a driver is found to be lacking the required knowledge of Marathi, the licensing authority will issue a notice giving him or her one month to acquire it. If the driver does not comply within that period, the authorisation on the driving licence may be suspended for up to three months. Continued non-compliance may then lead to revocation of the authorisation.

## What happens next The drivers who have completed the training will be able to continue driving without any issues, but those who have not will have to acquire the required knowledge of Marathi within the stipulated period to avoid suspension or cancellation of their driving licenses. The state government's move is expected to improve communication between drivers and passengers, leading to safer and more convenient travel.