The official deadline set for auto and taxi drivers in Maharashtra to acquire proficiency in the regional language has now come to a close. A significant number of public transport operators were unable to clear the mandatory evaluation, with government records showing that 7,750 auto drivers have failed the Marathi language exam. These particular individuals will now be required to undergo the testing process once again to meet the state requirements.
Thousands Of Drivers Still Awaiting Training Completion
An official associated with the transport department stated that another 17,427 drivers are currently waiting for their training programs to conclude. Mumbai accounts for the highest number of pending cases with 9,196 drivers awaiting completion, followed by Thane with 4,871, Navi Mumbai with 1,400, and Palghar with 350 drivers. An additional 1,610 drivers across other parts of Maharashtra are also awaiting training finalization. The official final date to wrap up the training sessions was August 15.
Over 1.40 Lakh Drivers Successfully Pass The Test
The regional transport offices organized this extensive program with the active cooperation of various literary organizations, drawing nearly 1.70 lakh applications in total. To date, more than 1.40 lakh auto drivers have successfully finished their training and cleared the Marathi proficiency exam. Out of the 165,600 formal applications received, 140,423 drivers have officially passed the evaluation so far.
Additional Training Required Before Retaking The Exam
According to department officials, the 7,750 drivers who did not clear the initial test must complete extra training sessions before they are allowed to reappear for the examination. Meanwhile, the 17,427 drivers who missed the August 15 deadline are continuing their coursework. Officials expect that the training sessions for these remaining drivers will wrap up within the next one to two weeks.
Initiative Stemmed From Mandatory Language Rule
This Marathi language training drive was originally launched in the wake of a state government policy decision making basic working knowledge of Marathi compulsory for all auto-rickshaw and taxi operators across Maharashtra.
