Odisha Govt Launches Drive to Mandate Odia Signboards in Shops

In a major push to promote the Odia language and cultural identity, the Odisha government on Friday launched a statewide campaign urging all business establishments to display Odia on their shop signboards. The Labour and Employees State Insurance (LESI) Department spearheaded the initiative, warning that non-compliance could lead to legal action.

The move comes as part of the ongoing ‘Odia Pakhya’ (Odia Fortnight), which is being observed from April 1 — celebrated as Utkal Dibasa (Odisha Day) — to April 14, marking the Odia New Year.

Several awareness rallies were organized across the state on Friday to spread the message. Government officials, local leaders, and volunteers participated in the events, encouraging shopkeepers and traders to embrace the campaign and highlight their connection to Odisha’s linguistic heritage.

“The aim is not just to enforce a rule, but to rekindle pride in our mother tongue,” a LESI Department official said. “Every business establishment is expected to comply by incorporating Odia in their signboards, alongside other languages if desired.”

This cultural initiative reflects the state government’s broader efforts to preserve and promote Odia language and traditions in public life, education, and commerce.

Officials indicated that inspections would begin soon, and establishments found flouting the directive may face penalties under relevant language laws and local regulations.