Aligning with the global theme “Digital Agenda and Artificial Intelligence to Redesign Tourism”, the Department of Tourism, Government of Odisha, celebrated World Tourism Day 2026 on Sunday with a series of transformative initiatives.
Held at the State Convention Centre, Lok Seba Bhawan, the state-level event emphasised digital innovation, sustainable infrastructure, institutional partnerships, and community-led growth.
Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida graced the occasion as the Chief Guest, alongside Chief Secretary Anu Garg as the Guest of Honour.
Major Partnerships and Financial Support
To give a robust impetus to grassroots entrepreneurship and institutional collaboration, the Department of Tourism inked several crucial Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs):
- State Bank of India (SBI): To facilitate easy financial support and loans for rural homestay owners.
- Archaeological Survey of India (ASI): To strengthen the institutional framework and promote heritage tourism preservation. DG of ASI, Shri Yadubir Singh Rawat, addressed the gathering on preserving India’s rich heritage assets.
- Indian Kayaking & Canoeing Association: To expand and formalise adventure tourism across Odisha’s water bodies.
Additionally, provisional registration certificates (PRCs) were distributed to 17 beneficiaries under the state’s Homestay Scheme, empowering local families to participate directly in the tourism economy.
Mobility and Eco-Tourism Enhancements
The celebrations featured extensive rollouts to upgrade visitor mobility and experiences. Parida flagged off new OTDC luxury coaches to improve transit options for travellers.
Furthermore, a virtual flag-off ceremony introduced a new OTDC EV Boat at Barkul and a Catamaran by Swosti at Chilika Lake, boosting eco-friendly navigation in the region.
Workshops and Culmination at Khandagiri
The event featured training for homestay operators and an Ethnic Tourism workshop. Tourism Commissioner-cum-Secretary Balwant Singh noted these steps drive inclusive and sustainable growth.
The celebrations concluded with Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida inaugurating a new Light & Sound Show at Khandagiri, combining modern storytelling with Odisha’s ancient heritage.
