Bhubaneswar: The Berhampur Municipal Corporation (BEMC) has issued a notification making it mandatory for all shops and commercial establishments in the city to display signboards in Odia. At least 60% of the writing on signboards must be in Odia.
Business establishments have been given a 55-day deadline to comply with the rule. Failure to do so will result in a fine of Rs 400. However, those who comply within the stipulated time will receive a 5% discount on the renewal of their trade license as an incentive.
This move by BeMC aims to preserve the mother tongue and promote the use of Odia language in the city. The decision is expected to have a significant impact on southern Odisha and will likely be a matter of pride for the people of Odisha.
Last month, the Housing & Urban Development Department Principal Secretary Usha Padhee had issued directives for all commercial establishments to display signboards in Odia under the jurisdiction of municipal corporations, municipalities, and notified area councils.
