Udupi: The Udupi City Municipality has issued a directive requiring all commercial establishments—including offices, shops, banks, hotels, and companies—within its limits to ensure at least 60% of their name boards are in Kannada. The move aims to uphold local language prominence and honor regional identity.
As part of the new rule, business owners must include the name of their locality or town on signage, reflecting Udupi’s cultural heritage. The Kannada portion must be at least 60% larger than any text in other languages.
The municipality has set a 15-day deadline for existing businesses to update their boards. Additionally, those who haven’t obtained or renewed their trade licenses must do so within 7 days, as per guidelines.
Non-compliance will attract action under Sub-rule (6) of Section 256 of the Karnataka Municipalities Act, according to the notice issued by the Municipal Commissioner.