India, June 4 -- In response to the state transport department's decision to make knowledge of basic Marathi compulsory for auto-rickshaw and taxi drivers operating in Maharashtra, several transport unions in Pune have started conducting basic conversational Marathi classes for auto and taxi drivers. Classes are being held in small groups at auto-rickshaw stands, transport union offices, and community spaces across the city in a bid to help drivers learn commonly-used Marathi phrases and improve their interactions with commuters.

The move follows the Maharashtra government's launch of its statewide drive to promote 'Practical Marathi' among drivers so as to improve communication with passengers and encourage use of the state's official l...