Daijiworld Media Network – Bengaluru

Bengaluru, Mar 1: The Karnataka government has made it mandatory for all private and public sector industries to print product names and usage instructions in Kannada on all consumer and industrial products sold within the state. The directive was issued through a circular dated February 15, signed by K Umadevi, under-secretary, commerce and industries department (services and coordination).

The circular emphasizes the importance of language in preserving the culture and traditions of the land. It states, “For a language to thrive, it is crucial that manufacturing, market, and transactional activities are conducted in the local language.” This move aligns with the Kannada Language Comprehensive Development Act, 2022, which came into effect on March 12, 2024.

As per Section 17(7) of the Act, all products manufactured and sold in Karnataka must display information in Kannada along with other languages. The circular underscores that this is a compulsory measure, ensuring Kannada is prominently featured on all industrial and consumer goods.

The Enforcement Directorate is tasked with monitoring compliance under Section 9 of the Act. The circular has been circulated to all additional chief secretaries, general secretaries, secretaries, deputy commissioners, city corporation commissioners, zilla panchayat CEOs, and officials from the industries and commerce department, including the MSME director.

The new mandate is expected to spark discussions and debates across the state regarding its implementation and impact on businesses.