The Maharashtra transport department will begin video-recording Marathi language tests for new auto-rickshaw, taxi and aggregator cab drivers as part of stricter enforcement of the state’s language rule. The new system will come into effect from August 20.
Transport minister Pratap Sarnaik said applicants seeking new permits and badges will have to demonstrate their practical Marathi-speaking skills through direct interaction with Regional Transport Office (RTO) officials. Badges will only be issued after officials verify that the applicant has a working knowledge of the language.
The Marathi language requirement has been in place since 1989, but the state will now enforce it more strictly under amended legal provisions notified on August 12. Drivers who fail to meet the language requirement will first receive a one-month notice to learn Marathi. If they still fail to comply, their badge may be suspended for up to three months. Repeat violations could lead to cancellation of both the driver’s badge and driving licence.
The transport department has also ordered RTOs to verify domicile certificates more carefully after reports of fake documents being used to obtain permits and badges. Officials have been directed to conduct document verification, police inquiries and residence checks before approving applications. Additional Transport Commissioner Ravi Gaikwad will monitor the drive and submit a report by the end of next month.
The announcement comes after the state’s 105-day Marathi language campaign, during which nearly 1.65 lakh non-Marathi-speaking auto and taxi drivers received language training. The government said the initiative is aimed at improving communication with commuters while preserving Maharashtra’s linguistic heritage, and not at restricting employment opportunities for migrants.
The state also highlighted welfare measures for drivers through the Anand Dighe Auto-Rickshaw and Taxi Drivers Welfare Corporation, which has enrolled more than 37,000 members and offers financial assistance for education, healthcare and senior drivers.
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