Mandatory Use of Odia Language in Official Work | GA&PG Dept Letter No.1338 Dated 13.01.2026
Mandatory Use of Odia Language in Official Work
Issued by: General Administration & Public Grievance (GA&PG) Department, Government of Odisha
Letter No: 1338 | Date: 13 January 2026
The Odisha State Government has once again mandated the compulsory use of Odia language in official work at all levels of administration, starting from Block Offices to all Government Departments.
The General Administration & Public Grievance Department has directed all Heads of Departments and Offices to ensure implementation of Odia language usage in letter and spirit.
Key Instructions Issued by GA&PG Department
- Minutes of all review meetings must be prepared in Odia language
- All notices and Government advertisements to be issued in Odia
- Bills, Gazettes and official website content to be published in Odia and English
- Use of Odia language to be ensured in daily official correspondence
Role of Odia Bhasa Pratisthan
The GA&PG Department has directed the Odia Bhasa Pratisthan under the Culture Department to regularly update the “Prasasan Sabdakosha”, a glossary of administrative terms in Odia.
This glossary will be used for training Government officials in the official and correct use of Odia language.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Which department issued this Odia language directive?
The General Administration & Public Grievance (GA&PG) Department, Government of Odisha.
Is Odia language mandatory in all government offices?
Yes, the directive applies to all government offices from Block level to Departments.
Will official websites be only in Odia?
No, official websites and gazettes will be published in both Odia and English.
Is there any penalty for non-compliance?
Yes, officials refusing to comply may face show cause proceedings and penalties.