Odisha has almost everything a tourist could want, including majestic monuments, exotic beaches, hot springs, lush forests, captivating wildlife, exquisite handlooms and handicrafts, and a vibrant religious and cultural calendar.
To market and promote this vast untapped potential in the travel and tourism sector, the state government has developed a proactive tourism policy, created incentives for entrepreneurs, and plans to improve infrastructure. As a result, the government plans to invest heavily in the sector during the Make in Odisha Conclave-2022.
“The current government’s active support to remove several regulatory and infrastructure roadblocks will help improve the overall investment climate in Odisha. We are ready to offer more incentives than any other state so that investors find Odisha an attractive destination,” said Hemant Sharma, industry secretary.
According to a statement made in the assembly on Saturday by tourism minister Ashwini Patra, the state government has approved a total of 122 investment proposals through the single-window system, which are in various stages of implementation. To attract more tourists, the government has also been working on developing a 21-night destination stay along the lines of Kerala, as well as budget-friendly tourist plans. According to official sources, the state government has been exploring newer segments such as cruise tourism, caravan tourism, sports tourism, eco-tourism, paragliding, and camping.
Despite the fatal blow dealt to the travel and tourism industry by Covid-19, the industry is showing signs of rapid recovery. “Our flagship events like Eco Retreat and Odisha by Roads are ready for the tourist season,” said an Odisha Tourism senior officer.
Suresh Chandra Mahapatra, chief secretary, paid a visit to Janata Maidan on Sunday to review preparations for the conclave.
Prasanta Patnaik