Karnataka Cabinet Grants Official Language Status to Tulu in Coastal Districts

By Political Bureau | Bangalore Mail

BANGALORE — In a landmark decision fulfilling a decades-long demand of the Tuluva community, the Karnataka Cabinet has officially granted Tulu the status of second additional official language for administrative purposes across the coastal districts of Dakshina Kannada and Udupi.

The policy shift enables the state administration to use Tulu alongside Kannada for official communications, public notices, and administrative paperwork within the specified region.

Key Highlights of the Cabinet Decision

 Official Recognition: Tulu becomes an official secondary administrative language specifically for Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts.

 Financial Backing: The state government has set aside an annual budget allocation of ₹82 lakh to support language translation services, administrative staff training, and official documentation.

 Historical Context: The cabinet’s decision aligns with recommendations from an expert committee report previously submitted by Dr. M. Mohan Alva.

District Renaming Proposal

Alongside the language recognition, the cabinet meeting held in Mangaluru produced another major administrative decision: the state government will issue a draft notification to formally rename Dakshina Kannada district as Mangaluru district.

The twin announcements mark a major policy shift for coastal Karnataka, addressing long-standing cultural identity demands while streamlining local administrative functions.