The Transport Minister announced that the Transport Department will implement a comprehensive Marathi language education campaign to help non-Marathi-speaking rickshaw and taxi drivers across the state speak, understand, and use the language effectively in their daily work. He also called on rickshaw and taxi driver associations to take the lead and actively participate in this effort.
During a special meeting held at the Ministry, detailed discussions took place regarding the Marathi language education initiative with representatives from various rickshaw and taxi driver associations across the state. The Transport Commissioner, along with other senior officials and office bearers of various associations, attended the meeting.
The Minister stated that four hours of online training will be provided daily to help drivers master practical Marathi. Special emphasis will be placed on developing conversational skills in Marathi, and an online training facility has also been made available. To ensure the training is both effective and accessible, special classes will be held at various branch offices. Initially, these training classes will begin in Thane, Dombivali, Navi Mumbai, Vasai-Virar, Palghar, and Dahanu areas. Additionally, Marathi training will be provided through organizations such as the Konkan Marathi Sahitya Parishad, the Mumbai Marathi Sahitya Sangh, and various non-governmental organizations. Approximately 4,500 trainers will be appointed for this initiative and provided with honorariums. The Minister also stated that the necessary funds for this project have already been allocated by the government.
Upon completion of the training, an oral exam will be conducted for drivers, and successful candidates will receive an official certificate from the government. Additionally, an Artificial Intelligence-based online application will be made available to help drivers translate from Hindi to Marathi and learn simple Marathi conversation skills. Through this app, drivers will be able to easily learn Marathi vocabulary, sentence structures, and everyday conversation skills, making Marathi language use more accessible. The Minister expressed confidence that this initiative will facilitate more effective communication between passengers and drivers and will also significantly promote the use of the Marathi language. He further clarified that the deadline for learning the Marathi language is August 15, 2026, and no further extensions will be granted.
Thane
Thane is a city in Maharashtra, India, located on the banks of the Thane Creek. Historically known as “Shurparaka” in ancient texts, it was an important trading port under the Maurya and later the Maratha empires. Today, it is a bustling suburban hub of Mumbai, known for its lakes, parks, and rapid urban development.
Dombivali
Dombivali is a suburban town in the Thane district of Maharashtra, India, located along the banks of the Ulhas River. Originally a small village known for its agricultural and fishing communities, it developed rapidly during the 20th century as a residential and industrial hub due to its proximity to Mumbai and the establishment of the Dombivali Industrial Area. Today, it is a bustling part of the Mumbai Metropolitan Region, known for its mix of urban development and natural surroundings.
Navi Mumbai
Navi Mumbai is a planned satellite city of Mumbai, located in the Indian state of Maharashtra, developed in the 1970s to decongest the overcrowded metropolis. It was envisioned by architect Charles Correa and the City and Industrial Development Corporation (CIDCO) to provide a modern, well-organized urban space with ample infrastructure. Today, it serves as a major residential and commercial hub, known for its green spaces and systematic layout.
Vasai-Virar
Vasai-Virar is a twin city in Maharashtra, India, located near Mumbai, that was historically known as Bassein under Portuguese rule from the 16th to 18th centuries. It was a major trading port and the site of the Fort of Vasai, which was fiercely contested between the Portuguese and the Maratha Empire before falling to the Marathas in 1739. Today, it is a rapidly growing suburban area, blending colonial-era ruins with modern urban development.
Palghar
Palghar is a coastal city in Maharashtra, India, known for its historical and cultural significance as part of the ancient Konkan region. Historically, it was ruled by various dynasties including the Mauryas, Chalukyas, and the Maratha Empire, and later came under British control. Today, Palghar serves as a gateway to several beaches, forts, and tribal heritage sites, blending natural beauty with a rich past.
Dahanu
Dahanu is a coastal town in Maharashtra, India, known for its pristine beaches, lush orchards, and significant Warli tribal population. Historically, it was part of the Maratha Empire and later came under British rule, serving as a key trading post. Today, it is celebrated for its chikoo (sapodilla) farms and the vibrant cultural traditions of the Warli community.
Konkan Marathi Sahitya Parishad
The Konkan Marathi Sahitya Parishad is a literary organization dedicated to the promotion and development of Marathi literature, particularly within the Konkan region of Maharashtra, India. Established in the early 20th century, it has played a key role in fostering regional literary and cultural activities, including organizing conferences and publishing works. The Parishad serves as a vital platform for writers and scholars to explore the unique linguistic and cultural heritage of the Konkani-speaking areas.
Mumbai Marathi Sahitya Sangh
The Mumbai Marathi Sahitya Sangh is a prominent literary organization in Mumbai dedicated to the promotion and preservation of Marathi language and literature. Founded in 1906, it has served as a vital cultural hub for writers, poets, and intellectuals, hosting discussions, lectures, and publications that have shaped modern Marathi literary movements. The Sangh continues to play a key role in fostering Marathi cultural identity and literary heritage in the city.
