Maharashtra to Enforce Marathi Language Rule for Auto and Taxi Drivers From August 20

Drivers Given One Month to Meet New Marathi Language Requirement

Maharashtra will begin strict enforcement of a practical Marathi language requirement for autorickshaw and taxi drivers from August 20, 2026. Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik said drivers who do not have basic working knowledge of Marathi will initially receive one month to meet the requirement.

The move is aimed at improving communication between drivers and passengers while promoting Maharashtra’s language and cultural identity. Officials have also outlined a clear process for existing drivers and new applicants.

Badge Suspension Possible for Drivers Who Do Not Comply

Drivers who are unable to demonstrate basic Marathi skills during the one-month compliance period could face action from the Transport Department.

According to the government, a driver’s badge may be suspended for up to three months if the required language skills are not acquired. Continued non-compliance could eventually result in cancellation of both the driver badge and the permit.

Sarnaik said the requirement is linked to a rule that has been in place since 1989. The government has now decided to enforce it more strictly following the introduction of the relevant legal provision on August 12, 2026.

1.65 Lakh Drivers Already Completed Marathi Training

To help drivers prepare for the requirement, Marathi organizations have already conducted a major language training campaign.

The Konkan Marathi Sahitya Parishad and Mumbai Marathi Sahitya Sangh organized the 105-day ‘Hinduhridaysamrat Balasaheb Thackeray Marathi Language Campaign.’ Around 1.65 lakh non-Marathi-speaking autorickshaw and taxi drivers took part in the program and received certificates after completing the training.

The initiative is expected to help drivers communicate more comfortably with passengers and understand basic Marathi used in everyday interactions.

Government Says Goal Is Inclusion, Not Job Losses

Sarnaik said the government does not want the language requirement to take away employment opportunities. Instead, the focus is on ensuring that drivers working in Maharashtra can communicate in the state’s language and respect its cultural identity.

He also highlighted Mumbai’s long-standing character as a city that welcomes people from different parts of India. At the same time, he said protecting and promoting Marathi remains an important part of the state’s cultural policy.

Drivers who intentionally refuse to learn or use Marathi could face action under the law, and the government does not plan to provide another extension after the compliance period.

New Auto and Taxi Permit Applicants Will Face Marathi Test

The Transport Department will also introduce stricter checks for people applying for new permits and driver badges.

Regional Transport Office officials will assess an applicant’s practical Marathi skills through direct interaction. The assessment will also be recorded on video to maintain transparency and provide an official record of the process.

A driver badge will be issued only after the applicant demonstrates the required level of practical Marathi knowledge.

Government to Verify Domicile Certificates

The Transport Department is also examining complaints about the use of fake domicile certificates to obtain auto and taxi permits and badges.

Authorities will check whether applicants have actually lived in Maharashtra for the required 15-year period. Where necessary, police inquiries may also be conducted as part of the verification process.

Additional Transport Commissioner Ravi Gaikwad has been given responsibility for overseeing the implementation of the new measures. A report on the progress of the drive is expected by the end of September.

Welfare Support for Auto and Taxi Drivers Expanded

Alongside the new compliance measures, the state government is also highlighting welfare programs for autorickshaw and taxi drivers.

More than 37,000 drivers have joined the corporation named after Anand Dighe, which works for the welfare of the transport community. The government has allocated around Rs 57 crore for various welfare initiatives.

These programs include financial assistance for students, a Rs 10,000 benefit for drivers after they reach the age of 65, and financial support for serious illnesses and medical treatment.

Maharashtra’s New Auto-Taxi Policy Combines Language and Welfare

The Marathi language requirement marks a significant change in how Maharashtra plans to regulate communication standards for auto and taxi drivers. While the government has announced penalties for continued non-compliance, it has also provided training opportunities and a one-month period for existing drivers to meet the requirement.

With stricter checks for new permits, verification of domicile documents and expanded welfare support, the government is combining regulatory measures with assistance for the state’s large autorickshaw and taxi driver community.