The Maharashtra government on Monday said it was considering trade unions’ demand to grant a specific timeframe for non-Marathi-speaking drivers to learn the language. This indicates the implementation of  compulsory Marathi rule set for May 1 is likely to be postponed.

Training plan

The government intends to roll out a short-term course to impart practical Marathi knowledge tailored for rickshaw drivers. These training programmes are scheduled to begin from August 15. Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik reaffirmed that Marathi proficiency is mandatory for all passenger transport drivers in the state.