Over 2 lac taxi and auto rickshaw drivers of Maharashtra will be trained in etiquette and soft skills as part of an effort to turn the state into a tourism powerhouse.

The unique programme is initiated by Maharashtra Economic Development Council (MEDC) and will be part of the 'Visit Golden Maharashtra' project, inaugurated today by Dr Vijaykumar Gavit, Minister of Tourism.

Conceived by MEDC, 'Visit Golden Maharashtra' is supported by the state government, Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC) and MultiNet Worldwide to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Maharashtra and to promote the state as a global tourism. ''Taxi and rickshaw drivers are the first point of interaction for tourists. Their behaviour can create a lasting impression on visitors minds and affect how they feel about the city. Taxi and auto drivers act as Ambassadors of goodwill,'' said Vinod Gupta, Vice President International, MEDC.

The state has engaged 'For She Travels and Logistics, that started the first taxi service exclusively for ladies in Mumbai and Delhi, to impart the training during the eight-month programme. Over two lakh drivers from Mumbai, Nagpur, Pune, Aurangabad and Nashik will be trained in batches of 100 to 150 drivers and it will last three to four hours. At the end, the drivers will be given certificates that they can display in their taxis.

The primary aim is to impart soft skills, such as how to address people respectfully. Drivers will also be taught safety norms, fuel conservation techniques and put through a refresher course on road signs. Apart from this, they will be provided with information on tourist interests that they can pass on to visitors. The programme will help raise drivers business prospects and help the tourism industry, Mr Gupta said.