Bhubaneswar: The Odisha Tourism Department Sunday signed MoUs to facilitate the establishment of homestays and promotion of adventure and heritage tourism in the state.
The department signed an MoU with the State Bank of India (SBI) to provide financial support for homestays, in the presence of Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida.
In a significant step towards expanding adventure tourism in Odisha, the Department of Tourism signed another MoU with the Indian Kayaking & Canoeing Association.
The third MoU was signed between the Department of Tourism and the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) to strengthen the institutional framework for heritage tourism.
Addressing the gathering, Parida underscored the transformative potential of tourism in generating livelihood opportunities, nurturing entrepreneurship and enabling communities to become active stakeholders in Odisha’s growth story.
The DyCM highlighted the need to integrate technology, sustainability, heritage, innovation and community participation to strengthen Odisha’s tourism ecosystem and enhance the visitor experience across destinations.
She urged stakeholders to ensure that the benefits of tourism reach local communities and create new opportunities for youth, women, entrepreneurs, artisans and tourism service providers.
The DyCM further highlighted the importance of digital innovation and emerging technologies in improving destination discovery, access to tourism services and the overall visitor experience.
The partnerships forged on World Tourism Day, she observed, would contribute towards building a more inclusive, sustainable and future-ready tourism sector in Odisha.
Chief Secretary Anu Garg highlighted the importance of coordinated efforts, institutional partnerships and innovation in strengthening the tourism ecosystem in the state.
Garg emphasised the need for tourism development to create opportunities for local communities while ensuring quality visitor experiences and sustainable management of destinations.
During the event, Parida flagged off OTDC (Odisha Tourism Development Corporation) luxury coaches, aimed at enhancing tourist mobility and providing improved travel experiences for visitors to Odisha.
This was followed by the screening of Mann Ki Baat by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. An Odisha Tourism video showcasing the state’s diverse tourism offerings and initiatives was also screened.
A virtual flag-off of the OTDC EV Boat at Barkul and the Catamaran at Chilika lake held during the programme.
ASI Director General Yadubir Singh Rawat highlighted the importance of preserving and promoting India’s rich heritage assets as an integral part of the tourism experience.
In the event, Provisional Registration Certificates (PRCs) were distributed to 17 beneficiaries under the Homestay scheme.
The day-long World Tourism Day celebration culminated with the inauguration of the light and sound show at Khandagiri by Parida.