DHARWAD: In a significant step to bridge the language gap between non-Kannada speaking officials and locals, the Kannada Development Authority (KDA) is all set to launch Kannada learning centres in Dharwad, following the success of similar centres in Bengaluru.
Speaking in Dharwad on Wednesday, KDA chairman Purushottam Bilimale said that officials from other states posted in Karnataka often struggle to communicate with the local population, which leads to misunderstandings and friction. To address this, around 20 Kannada learning centres have been set up in Bengaluru, and now five such centres will be opened in Dharwad district.
These centres will offer a 36-hour crash course focused on basic Kannada conversation skills, specifically tailored for government staff and non-Kannadigas to improve grassroots engagement.
Bilimale also reviewed compliance with the Kannada nameboard rule. He noted that around 75% of business establishments in Dharwad district have Kannada signage. However, Hubballi has shown relatively lower compliance. He mentioned that a proposal to link trade license renewals to Kannada nameboard adherence has been discussed, and the Hubballi-Dharwad Municipal Corporation (HDMC) commissioner may consider enforcing this condition.
Further, the KDA has recommended naming roads within the Karnatak University campus after distinguished scholars and pro-Kannada activists. The university’s new vice-chancellor has assured support for the initiative.
On a broader front, the KDA has directed all district commissioners to submit lists of Kannada activists who faced legal action during language protests. Once compiled, the KDA will push for withdrawal of such cases to uphold linguistic justice.