The new deadline for drivers to complete Marathi language training ends Aug 18, 2027
It may be recalled that following demands from driver unions in Aug, state chief minister Devendra Fadnavis had met union leaders and granted a temporary extension, pushing enforcement of the rule by a year — the new deadline now being Aug 18, 2027. He pointed out that the first phase of the initiative saw more than 1.65 lakh drivers trained through over 180 centres with the support of 1,800 instructors.
This period is meant for preparation, not postponement,” he said, warning that rules would be enforced strictly once the deadline ends. The govt training programme is designed to help non-native speakers acquire basic conversational Marathi that can be used in day-to-day interactions with commuters, he said. Stressing that speaking Marathi is not merely a regulatory requirement but also a means of connecting better with passengers, Sarnaik appealed to drivers to enrol in the second phase of the state’s Marathi learning campaign. The programme, titled ‘Maharashtra Maza! Marathi Mazi Samvad Bhasha!’, is being conducted jointly by the transport department, Rajya Marathi Vikas Sanstha and Kokan Marathi Sahitya Parishad. However, Sarnaik clarified that the law has only been deferred and not scrapped. “Drivers should not take the stay order for granted. The appeal comes amid an ongoing debate over govt’s move to make Marathi proficiency mandatory for drivers seeking badges and permits.
Mumbai: Maharashtra transport minister Pratap Sarnaik on Monday urged non-Marathi drivers not to view the temporary relief granted by state govt on Marathi-language norms as a permanent exemption.
For many commuters, the issue goes beyond policy. Passengers often face communication barriers while explaining destinations, routes or emergencies. Supporters of the campaign believe improved Marathi skills could make everyday travel smoother and reduce misunderstandings.
With less than a year left before the deadline approaches, govt hopes more drivers will use the opportunity to learn the language voluntarily, rather than face possible action later.