Archive · 12 Dec 2025
Karnataka Mandates Kannada in Nameboards
The Karnataka government has told all Deputy Commissioners to make sure that shops, hospitals, and other places use Kannada in their nameboards.
At least 60% of the nameboard must be in Kannada, and it should be at the top.
If they don't follow this rule, they can be fined.
The first time, it's Rs 5,000, the second time Rs 10,000, and up to Rs 20,000 for every time after that.
They might even lose their license.
The minister said this is important to help the Kannada language grow.
Karnataka government mandates 60% Kannada in nameboards for commercial and public establishments.
Deputy Commissioners are responsible for enforcing the rule under the Kannada Language Comprehensive Development Act, 2022.
Penalties for non-compliance range from Rs 5,000 to Rs 20,000, with possible license cancellation.
Kannada must be displayed at the top of the nameboard.
The directive was issued to all implementing authorities and Deputy Commissioners.
- Who
- Karnataka government, Deputy Commissioners, commercial establishments
- What
- Mandatory use of Kannada in nameboards
- When
- December 12, 2023
- Where
- Karnataka, India
- Why
- To promote the Kannada language as per the Kannada Language Comprehensive Development Act, 2022
- Act
- Kannada Language Comprehensive Development Act, 2022
- Mandate
- 60% Kannada in nameboards
- Penalties
- Rs 5,000 (1st), Rs 10,000 (2nd), up to Rs 20,000 (subsequent)
- Enforcement
- Deputy Commissioners
- Date
- December 12, 2023
- Location
- Belagavi, Karnataka
- Minister
- Shivaraj Tangadagi