The Maharashtra government has made practical knowledge of Marathi mandatory for drivers and permit holders of commercial passenger vehicles, including auto-rickshaws, taxis and app-based motor cabs with electronic meters. The move is aimed at ensuring that drivers can communicate effectively with passengers and understand basic concerns during journeys.

A government resolution on the matter is scheduled to be issued as the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, is amended and the Motor Amendment Rules 2026 come into effect, officials said. The revised provisions specifically cover drivers and permit holders operating passenger vehicles in the state. Under amended Rules 78 and 85, permit holders will also be required to demonstrate practical knowledge of Marathi.

Under the new provisions, drivers who cannot speak Marathi at a basic conversational level will initially receive a one-month notice to acquire the required language skills. If a driver fails to meet the requirement within that period, their driving licence can be suspended for three months. The rules therefore establish a phased penalty system before stronger action is taken.

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If the driver remains unable to demonstrate the required practical knowledge of Marathi after the three-month suspension period, provisions will allow for permanent cancellation of the driving licence. The language requirement will be assessed by the concerned licensing authorities, with the government specifying that the level of proficiency should be satisfactory for effective communication with passengers.

Maharashtra Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik maintained that the amendments clarify existing provisions and place greater emphasis on practical knowledge of Marathi among passenger-vehicle operators. He said the ability to communicate in the local language is important for understanding passengers' concerns and ensuring a safe and convenient journey.

The latest move follows an earlier decision in April, when the Maharashtra government provided temporary relief to commercial passenger-vehicle drivers by allowing them additional time until August 15 for the next review. The new rules now establish clearer language requirements and consequences for drivers who fail to meet them.

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