Odisha introduces multi-pronged tourism promotion plan

Odisha: The Odisha government has announced several initiatives to attract domestic and foreign tourists to its popular destinations like Puri, Konark, Bhubaneswar, Chilika, Simlipal, and Sunabeda.

During question hour in the Assembly, Rajnagar MLA Dhruv Charan Sahu asked about measures to promote tourism. Pravati Parida, head of the Tourism Department and Deputy Chief Minister, outlined the government’s major promotion and development programs.

She explained that under the leadership of Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, the Odisha Tourism Development Corporation (OTDC) has adopted a comprehensive strategy. Digital marketing campaigns run on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and X. Outdoor branding includes billboards, banners, bus branding, and airport displays in major cities. Electronic media promotion includes radio jingles, TV commercials, and documentaries. Print newsletters, brochures, and magazines showcase Odisha’s cultural and natural heritage.

The government also participates in national and international tourism fairs, organizes road shows, and arranges familiarization trips for travel agents. Plans include developing new tourism circuits and upgrading key destinations.

Parida confirmed that significant funds have been spent on tourism promotion and development in the past three fiscal years, and allocations have been increased for 2025-26. Special projects focus on improving the Puri-Konark-Bhubaneswar triangle, Chilika Lake, wildlife sanctuaries, and spiritual sites.

Sahu welcomed these initiatives but urged the government to monitor the quality and impact of promotional activities. He said that effective implementation could strengthen Odisha’s tourism industry and boost the state’s economy.

Tourism enthusiasts are expected to see visible results soon as Odisha accelerates its efforts to establish itself as a premier travel destination.