Odisha Govt Issues Directive for Mandatory Use of Odia Script on Shop Signboards in Urban Areas

Bhubaneswar: The Odisha Government has issued a directive mandating the use of Odia script on signboards of all shops and commercial establishments under the jurisdiction of Municipal Corporations, Municipalities, and Notified Area Councils.

The directive was issued by Usha Padhee, Principal Secretary, Housing & Urban Development Department.

This order aligns with the State Government’s commitment to uphold Odia language in public spaces and make signage more accessible to citizens, especially those unfamiliar with other languages or scripts.

All shops and commercial establishments must ensure that Odia script occupies at least 60% of the total area of their signboards. This will help reinforce the visibility and importance of the state’s official language.

To encourage adherence, compliant establishments will be eligible for a 5% discount on the renewal fee of their trade license, which can be availed through the SUJOG or Bhubaneswar.me portals, the Department said.

Urban Local Bodies have been urged to verify compliance during trade license renewals and inspections, which must be completed by 30th September 2025.

Non-compliant establishments will receive a formal notice and will be given 55 days to rectify the signage. A penalty of ₹500 per day will be imposed on continued non-compliance beyond the grace, it added.