Maharashtra: The government has taken a big step regarding Marathi language for auto-rickshaw drivers in Maharashtra, which clearly shows its efforts to strengthen the language and local identity in the state. Now, to implement this decision on the ground, a special verification campaign is being started, which will be run on a large scale in the coming months. The aim of this initiative is not only to enforce the rules but also to encourage drivers to learn Marathi.

Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik has informed that this special campaign will start from May 1 and will continue till August 15. During this period, auto-rickshaw drivers will be checked across the state to see whether they are following the prescribed rules or not. The special thing is that this campaign will be operated through all the 59 Regional Transport Offices (RTOs) of Maharashtra.

This entire process will be monitored by a special committee, which will be headed by Additional Transport Commissioner Ravindra Gaikwad. The committee will review the progress of the campaign on daily and weekly basis and will also give directions to the RTO if needed.

License will not be canceled for not knowing Marathi

The government has clarified one important thing regarding this campaign that no driver’s license will be canceled merely on the basis of not knowing Marathi language. This makes it clear that the aim of the government is not to punish, but to increase awareness.

However, if any driver is found violating other rules or involved in illegal transportation activities, strict action will be taken against him. The minister said that all steps will be taken as per the existing legal provisions, so that any kind of arbitrariness can be avoided.

Government’s stance regarding Marathi language

Pratap Sarnaik bluntly said that if a person wants to work in Maharashtra, he should have knowledge of Marathi language. He believes that this is necessary for better communication with the local culture and people. Auto and taxi unions have also come forward to support this decision. Representatives of the unions justified this step of the government and promised to cooperate in its implementation.

Indications received from Mira-Bhayandar campaign

Recently, a similar special campaign was conducted in Mira-Bhayandar region, the results of which were shocking. A total of 3,443 auto-rickshaws were checked during the investigation, out of which 565 drivers were found not able to communicate in Marathi language. However, it is a matter of relief that these drivers showed interest in learning Marathi. This indicates that people are ready to learn a new language if given the right direction and opportunity.

Training arrangements for drivers

The government has not limited this initiative to just testing, but has also taken concrete steps to teach Marathi to the drivers. Training will be arranged in RTO offices for such drivers who want to learn Marathi. Organizations like Konkan Marathi Sahitya Parishad and Mumbai Marathi Sahitya Sangh will cooperate in this work. Through these institutions, drivers will be helped in learning the language. Apart from this, they will also be given booklets prepared in easy language, so that they can practice as per their time.

You will get certificate after training

Drivers who successfully complete this training will be given a certificate from the state government. This certificate will be required at the time of renewal of license in future. This move will not only promote language learning but will also ensure that drivers can easily communicate with the local people and provide better service.