The Odisha government has unveiled an ambitious tourism expansion plan aimed at developing 15 iconic tourism destinations and generating nearly 15 lakh livelihood opportunities across the state. Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi announced the initiative on Saturday while inaugurating the seventh edition of the Konark Eco Retreat at Ramchandi along the Puri–Konark marine drive.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister said the plan is part of the state’s long-term development vision, Viksit Odisha 2036, which places tourism as a key driver of economic growth and employment generation. He added that Odisha aims to position itself as a leading eco-cultural tourism destination in Asia.
Tourism as a Pillar of Viksit Odisha 2036
CM Majhi said the tourism roadmap focuses on both destination development and large-scale job creation. He highlighted tourism’s potential to provide employment opportunities, particularly for rural communities and economically weaker sections, while also promoting Odisha’s rich cultural heritage, traditional art forms and local cuisine.
He stressed that the government’s approach is to move beyond isolated tourism projects and instead develop integrated, high-capacity destinations that can support sustained growth in tourist footfall over the coming years.
Eco-Retreats Show Sustainable Growth Model
Highlighting the success of eco-retreats across the state, the Chief Minister referred to destinations such as Satkosia, Bhitarkanika, Daringbadi, Sonapur and Konark. He said these initiatives have boosted local economies, created employment and encouraged environmental awareness, while ensuring that natural ecosystems remain protected.
CM Majhi described eco-retreats as one of the state’s most impactful tourism initiatives and said similar models could be replicated at other suitable locations. He also revealed that the government is exploring the idea of holding cabinet and council of ministers’ meetings at select eco-retreat destinations to further promote sustainable tourism.
Konark Eco Retreat 2025 Begins
The seventh edition of the Konark Eco Retreat has been set up near the mouth of the Kushabhadra river and will operate for 90 days. The retreat offers multiple categories of luxury tents and a range of curated experiences, including beach activities, yoga sessions, water sports and cultural performances.
The inauguration ceremony featured a drone show along the beachfront, marking the formal start of the tourism season at one of Odisha’s flagship eco-tourism destinations.
