Odisha govt mandates Odia script on shop signboards in urban areas
Odisha government has mandated Odia script on signboards of shops under the jurisdiction of Municipal Corporations, Municipalities, and Notified Area Councils of the state.
Bhubaneswar: Odisha government has mandated Odia script on signboards of shops under the jurisdiction of Municipal Corporations, Municipalities, and Notified Area Councils of the state.
Housing & Urban Development Department Principal Secretary Usha Padhee has issued a directive in this regard with the aim to promote and preserve the rich cultural and linguistic heritage of Odisha.
- Mandatory Odia Usage: At least 60% of the signboard area must feature Odia script.
- Incentives for Compliance: A 5% discount on trade license renewal fees via SUJOG or Bhubaneswar.me portals.
- Inspection Deadline: Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) must complete compliance checks by 30th September 2025.
- Grace Period & Penalty: Non-compliant shops will get 55 days to rectify signage; ₹500/day penalty thereafter.
- Awareness Drives: ULBs are instructed to conduct outreach programs to assist shopkeepers.
- Reporting Requirement: All ULBs must submit a compliance report within 60 days to the Directorate of Municipal Administration.
