Odia signboards mandatory: Check rebates and penalties for establishments

In a significant move to promote and preserve the Odia language, the Odisha government has made it mandatory for all shops and commercial establishments to display signboards in Odia across the state.

The directive applies to all establishments functioning under the jurisdiction of municipal corporations, municipalities, and notified area councils. According to official guidelines, a minimum of 60% of the total signboard area must be written in Odia script.

To encourage compliance, the government has announced a 5% rebate on trade license renewal for those establishments that follow the signage norms.

Establishments failing to adhere to the rule will be served with a correction notice and given a 55-day window to rectify the signboard. If they still fail to comply, a penalty of Rs 500 per day will be imposed until the corrections are made.

The Housing and Urban Development Department has directed all concerned authorities to ensure strict enforcement within 60 days. An awareness campaign will also be launched to inform shop owners and businesses about the new rule.

This move is being seen as part of the state’s broader effort to promote the use of the Odia language in public spaces, especially in urban and commercial areas.