The Business Bytes
THEBUSINESSBYTES BUREAU
BHUBANESWAR, FEBRUARY 4, 2025
In a bid to boost tourism and attract investments, the Odisha government organized a high-profile roadshow in Hyderabad on Tuesday, highlighting the state’s rich cultural heritage, diverse landscapes, and emerging tourism opportunities. The event, held in association with the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI), drew participation from over 40 travel operators and 20 tourism investors from Hyderabad, fostering dynamic B2B interactions.
Speaking at the event, Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida, who also heads the Tourism Department, emphasized Odisha’s commitment to fostering a pro-investment environment. “Our unwavering commitment provides robust support for businesses, ensuring a conducive atmosphere for investment in tourism,” she said. Parida underscored Odisha’s vast potential, boasting serene landscapes, unique destinations, and a spectrum of opportunities across various tourism sub-sectors. She urged investors to capitalize on these advantages and contribute to the state’s evolving tourism landscape.
Tourism Secretary Balwant Singh reinforced the state’s commitment to becoming a key destination for domestic travelers. Highlighting Odisha’s extensive tourism potential, he pointed out the state’s strong road connectivity to neighboring states, which facilitates seamless travel. His presentation showcased opportunities for investors, with a focus on strategic investments and infrastructure development. Singh emphasized the government’s dedication to creating a streamlined and growth-oriented ecosystem for tourism stakeholders.
One of the major takeaways from the event was the proposal to include Odisha in prominent tourism plazas, a move expected to enhance the state’s visibility and accessibility on the national and international tourism map. Officials noted that such an inclusion would significantly elevate Odisha’s profile, drawing more tourists and investors alike.
A key focus of the discussions was wellness tourism, leveraging Odisha’s natural beauty, tranquil landscapes, and traditional wellness practices to position the state as a premier destination for holistic and rejuvenating travel experiences. Industry stakeholders shared insights on tapping into the growing global demand for wellness tourism and integrating Odisha’s unique offerings into this flourishing sector.
Later in the day, the Odisha Tourism delegation engaged with over a dozen potential investors from the travel and tourism sector, exploring opportunities for investment in the state’s rapidly expanding tourism infrastructure. These discussions aimed at facilitating collaborations and setting the stage for sustainable growth in Odisha’s tourism industry.
With its strategic initiatives and investor-friendly policies, Odisha is rapidly emerging as one of India’s most promising tourism destinations, offering unparalleled opportunities for stakeholders to build, grow, and thrive in a flourishing sector.
