06 May,2026 10:52 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Until a final decision is taken, the Hindi language examination conducted by the Directorate of Languages has been suspended, officials said. File Pic
The Maharashtra government has decided to suspend the Hindi language examination for its employees, Marathi Language Minister Uday Samant announced on Tuesday.
Samant explained that the requirement for government employees to pass a Hindi language exam dates back to the pre-statehood period of the former government, when it was introduced to ease official communication. However, after the formation of Maharashtra and the recognition of Marathi as the official language, most government work has been conducted in Marathi since May 1, 1966.
He noted that Hindi is now rarely used in official communication, making the continuation of the exam unnecessary.
The proposal to cancel the exam entirely has also been submitted to the government and is currently under consideration. A final policy decision is expected soon.
Until a final decision is taken, the Hindi language examination conducted by the Directorate of Languages has been suspended, officials said.
Language Director Arun Gite stated that the suspension will remain in place until further instructions are issued.
The decision comes weeks after the state had decided to make Marathi mandatory for auto and taxi drivers in state. However the decision was later put on hold.
The Maharashtra government had earlier put a temporary hold on action against auto and taxi drivers who fail the mandatory Marathi language test. During a meeting last month, State Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik said that no action will be taken against anyone solely for not being able to speak Marathi; however, if forged documents are found during the inspections or if violations of rules come to light, legal action will be taken against the drivers concerned.
Checks for Marathi language skills, permits, and other documents will begin from May 1. The transport department has launched a special verification drive from May 1 which will go on till August 15.
The rule that all auto rickshaw and taxi drivers must know Marathi was set to start being enforced from May 1, Maharashtra Day. However, after requests and protests, the deadline has been extended. The department would still carry out a drive across 59 regional and sub-regional offices to check licences, permits, and their ability to read and write Marathi. A report will be submitted on August 15 after, which a decision will be taken.
Drivers not comfortable with Marathi will be assisted by the department in acquiring necessary skills. App-based drivers will not be exempted. Sarnaik said those finding it difficult can approach the department for help and time.
