📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / This Photo was taken by Timothy A. Gonsalves. Fee
Politics
Karnataka Minister Calls on Banks to Serve Customers in Kannada
✍️ indiatoday.in
🗓 02 Sep 2026, 02:36 AM
👁 1
The Karnataka state minister urged all banks operating in the state to provide services in the Kannada language, emphasizing the need to cater to local customers.
Bengaluru, Karnataka – In a recent directive, the state minister responsible for language affairs appealed to banking institutions across Karnataka to conduct their customer interactions in Kannada. The minister highlighted that using the regional language would enhance accessibility for the majority of residents who are more comfortable communicating in their mother tongue.
The appeal comes amid growing concerns that many banks continue to operate primarily in English or Hindi, limiting effective communication for Kannada-speaking citizens. By adopting Kannada in branch signage, customer service, and digital platforms, banks can improve financial inclusion and build trust among local communities.
Banking officials have been asked to review their language policies and implement necessary changes promptly. The minister indicated that compliance would be monitored and that non‑conforming institutions could face regulatory scrutiny.
Stakeholders, including consumer rights groups, welcomed the move, stating that it aligns with the state's broader efforts to promote Kannada in public services and preserve cultural identity.
The directive underscores the government's commitment to linguistic diversity and aims to ensure that essential financial services are accessible to all sections of Karnataka's population.
The appeal comes amid growing concerns that many banks continue to operate primarily in English or Hindi, limiting effective communication for Kannada-speaking citizens. By adopting Kannada in branch signage, customer service, and digital platforms, banks can improve financial inclusion and build trust among local communities.
Banking officials have been asked to review their language policies and implement necessary changes promptly. The minister indicated that compliance would be monitored and that non‑conforming institutions could face regulatory scrutiny.
Stakeholders, including consumer rights groups, welcomed the move, stating that it aligns with the state's broader efforts to promote Kannada in public services and preserve cultural identity.
The directive underscores the government's commitment to linguistic diversity and aims to ensure that essential financial services are accessible to all sections of Karnataka's population.