Karnataka Government Mandates Kannada Product Information
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Synopsis
In a recent directive, the Karnataka government has ordered that all industries must display their company name and usage instructions in Kannada, as stated by the Chief Minister's Office. This initiative aims to promote the local language and culture.
Key Takeaways
- Karnataka government mandates usage of Kannada in product information.
- All industries must comply with the new regulation.
- Enforcement Directorate will oversee compliance.
- The initiative aims to preserve local culture.
- Debate expected in the state regarding the decision.
Bengaluru, March 1 (NationPress) The Karnataka government has mandated that both private and public sector enterprises must display their company name and usage instructions in Kannada, according to an official announcement from the Chief Minister's Office (CMO) released on Friday.
The circular, dated February 15, issued by the Congress-led government, was signed by K. Umadevi, the Under Secretary of the Commerce and Industries Department (Services and Coordination).
The document emphasizes, "The language reflects the land's culture and traditions. It is essential for the growth of a language that manufacturing, market, and transactions should be conducted in the local language. The Karnataka government has enacted the Kannada Language Comprehensive Development Act, 2022, effective from March 12, 2024."
According to Section 17 (7) of the Act, all industrial and consumer products made and sold within the state are required to print their name and user instructions in Kannada alongside other languages, the circular noted.
"It is hereby mandated to compulsorily print the name and user instructions and additional information on all industrial and customer products in Kannada, along with other languages," the circular specified.
Section 9 of the Kannada Comprehensive Development Act, 2022, states that the Enforcement Directorate must oversee and ensure that all producers of government and private sector industrial and consumer articles print their name and usage instructions in Kannada, as highlighted in the circular.
This directive has been disseminated to all Additional Chief Secretaries, General Secretaries, Secretaries, Deputy Commissioners, Commissioners of all city corporations, CEOs of all Zilla Panchayats, the Commissioner of Industries Development of the Industry and Commerce Department in Bengaluru, and the Director of MSMEs.
This decision by the Karnataka government is expected to spark a debate within the state.
