Fadnavis Gives Auto, Cab Drivers Year to Learn Marathi
Maharashtra CM sets deadline, transport minister welcomes decision

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has given auto and cab drivers in the state a year to learn Marathi. This decision was made after a previous ruling by State Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik was overruled.
The move aims to promote the use of the Marathi language among drivers, who often interact with passengers from different linguistic backgrounds.
According to the decision, all auto and cab drivers will be required to learn basic Marathi phrases, which will enable them to communicate more effectively with their passengers.
State Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik, whose original decision was overruled, has welcomed the Chief Minister's move, stating that the CM is the supreme authority in the state government.
The decision has sparked a mixed reaction from various stakeholders, with some hailing it as a move to promote the state's official language, while others have expressed concerns about the practicality of implementing such a rule.
The Maharashtra government has been actively promoting the use of Marathi in various spheres, including education and governance. This move is seen as another step towards promoting the language and culture of the state.
In recent years, there have been efforts to make Marathi a more prominent language in the state, with initiatives such as making it compulsory in schools and encouraging its use in official communications.
The decision to require auto and cab drivers to learn Marathi is likely to have a significant impact on the state's transportation sector, with thousands of drivers expected to be affected.
As the state government moves to implement this decision, it remains to be seen how effective it will be in promoting the use of Marathi among drivers and the general public.
The move is also expected to have implications for the state's tourism industry, with many visitors to Maharashtra relying on auto and cab drivers for transportation and communication.
Overall, the decision by the Chief Minister to require auto and cab drivers to learn Marathi reflects the state government's commitment to promoting the language and culture of Maharashtra.
Frequently asked questions
Why did Fadnavis make this decision?
The decision aims to promote the use of the Marathi language among drivers, who often interact with passengers from different linguistic backgrounds.
How will this decision affect auto and cab drivers?
All auto and cab drivers will be required to learn basic Marathi phrases, which will enable them to communicate more effectively with their passengers.