Mumbai, 28 Aug

(HS): Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has extended period for

learning Marathi by taxi and autorickshaw drivers to one year. Special classes

in working knowledge in Marathi for drivers are being conducted. Action will

not be taken against the drivers during the extended period.

Transport

Minister Pratap Sarnaik had granted four months to the drivers. Fadnavis,

however, extended the period to one year, following telephonic talk with Union

Minister Giriraj Sinh.

The decision was

taken as elections in Hindi speaking states are due next year.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Ajay Vasant Mardikar