Odisha govt mandates use of Odia on signboards at shops

On Wednesday, August 6, 2025, the Odisha government made it necessary for all stores and commercial organizations in urban areas to exhibit significantly in the ODIA language.

Direction was published by Usha Padhee, the leader of the Housing and Urban Development Department for the enterprises under the jurisdiction of municipal companies, municipalities and reported field councils.

He said that the order of the state government to maintain the Odia language in public spaces and to make it more accessible for citizens, especially for those who are not familiar with other languages or scenarios.

The directive said that all shops and commercial organizations in urban areas should occupy at least 60% of the total area of ODIA betting.

“This will help strengthen the visibility and importance of the official language of the state.” He said.

“To encourage donation, compatible organizations will be suitable for five percent discount on the renewal fee of commercial licenses.”

Urban local organs were ordered to verify the compatibility during the renewal and audits of trade license that should be completed until September 30 this year. He said that non -compatible organizations will receive an official notification and will be given 55 days to correct the signs.

Beyond the Grace period, continuous incompatibility will be fined 500 per day.

In addition, all municipal companies, municipalities and reported field councils were directed to carry out awareness driving forces to inform the tradesmen about the new norms and to expand the support for the application.

All ULBs are required to provide a strict compliance with these instructions and to provide a comprehensive compliance report to the Municipal Administration Office within 60 days.