Odisha Government Enforces Odia Language Use Across All Official Work
The Odisha government has issued a fresh directive mandating the use of the Odia language for all official work at every level of administration. This order applies from block offices up to various state departments. Many government offices currently use English alongside Odia in their official communications and documents.
The General Administration Department has instructed department heads to implement this language rule strictly and completely. Under this new mandate, all review meeting minutes, official notices, and government advertisements must be written and communicated exclusively in Odia.
Bilingual Requirements for Key Documents
Certain important documents will maintain bilingual formats. All government bills, posts on official websites, and gazette notifications will appear in both Odia and English languages. This ensures accessibility while promoting regional language use.
The department has directed the Odia Bhasa Pratisthan, which operates under the Culture Department, to regularly update the 'Prasasan Sabdakosha'. This is a specialized glossary containing administrative terms in Odia. The updated glossary will help train government officials in proper official language usage.
Consequences for Non-Compliance
The guidelines from the General Administration Department include specific consequences for officials who refuse to follow the language mandate. Any government official failing to comply will first receive a show-cause notice requiring explanation.
If necessary after this initial step, penalties will be imposed for continued non-compliance. This enforcement mechanism aims to ensure serious implementation of the language policy.
Cultural Minister Addresses Implementation Challenges
Culture Minister Suryabanshi Suraj acknowledged that many officials hesitate to use the regional language due to various concerns. "Many officials avoid using Odia because they fear making mistakes," Suraj explained.
"We are encouraging them to begin using the language regardless. If errors occur initially, we will correct them gradually over time. This approach represents our starting point for mainstreaming Odia in government operations," the minister added.
Historical Context of Language Legislation
The Orissa Official Language Act originally took effect on October 15, 1954. This legislation called for using Odia in all official activities across the state. Between 1963 and 1985, lawmakers amended the Act five separate times.
These amendments specifically permitted using both English and Odia for official purposes. The current directive represents a renewed emphasis on the original intent of the legislation.
Training Resources for Government Officials
Meanwhile, the Odia Bhasa Pratishthan has developed plans to upload all Odia language training modules to its official website. After completing formal training sessions, government officers can use these online resources as ongoing references.
These materials will help officials write and communicate effectively using simple, clear Odia language in their daily work. The combination of training and accessible reference materials aims to facilitate smooth transition to increased Odia usage.
