The initiative comes after the Maharashtra government pushed for auto-rickshaw and taxi drivers to possess a working knowledge of Marathi

 The programme aims at improving communication between drivers and passengers

At the Mumbai RTO, taxi drivers were seen waiting for their training session before appearing for the examination. The session focused on basic Marathi phrases and conversations that drivers are likely to use while interacting with passengers

An illustrated sheet featuring 15 simple Marathi conversations between a passenger and a driver was at the centre of the training programme. The material was designed to help drivers understand and respond to common questions and requests from passengers in Marathi

Taxi driver Mohamad Ansari while executing Marathi language exam that which consisted of 15 simple Marathi conversations questions

The training was conducted by teachers from organisations and educational institutions specialising in Marathi. Premlata Jadhav was among those involved in conducting the session

The drivers were also seen reading the illustrated material before taking the Marathi language examination at the RTO

The state government's initiative follows Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik's earlier announcement that drivers lacking practical knowledge of Marathi would be required to undergo language training by August 15

The government has also said the requirement is linked to existing licensing norms and is aimed at ensuring drivers meet the prescribed requirements