Bhubaneswar: Odisha is focusing on three key areas—heritage conservation, adventure tourism, and Buddhist pilgrimage—to develop its tourism sector.
The State Government has signed three MoUs to create a more resilient and inclusive tourism ecosystem, aiming to establish the state as a leading sustainable and culturally vibrant destination.
Speaking on the occasion, Shri Manoj Ahuja, Chief Secretary, Government of Odisha, stated: “As highlighted in the Odisha Vision 2036 document, tourism has a very large role to play and the fact that tourism can bring about economic development while preserving our culture and give livelihood to people, is a strategy on which we are working on.”
Key Collaborations and Their Focus
IIT Madras: This partnership is for the scientific conservation of Odisha’s heritage properties. The collaboration involves using advanced techniques for structural audits, material testing, and geotechnical investigations. It will also include preparing Detailed Project Reports (DPRs), adopting sustainable architectural standards, and providing project management support for restoration work. The goal is to ensure the long-term sustainability and quality of conservation efforts.
National Institute of Water Sports (NIWS), Goa: This MoU aims to promote safe and standardized adventure and water tourism. NIWS will provide technical expertise on safety protocols, conduct safety audits, and offer training programs for tourism operators and lifeguards. This initiative is designed to expand Odisha’s tourism offerings, particularly along its coastline, and create employment opportunities for local youth.
Odia Language, Literature & Culture Department and Light of Buddhadharma Foundation International (LBDFI): This collaboration is focused on promoting Odisha’s rich Buddhist heritage. The partnership includes organizing annual prayer ceremonies at significant sites like Ratnagiri, Udayagiri, and Lalitagiri. It also involves improving visitor amenities, installing digital engagement infrastructure, and curating cultural and academic activities. The objective is to enhance visitor experiences and position Odisha as a key destination on the global Buddhist pilgrimage circuit.
The strategic collaborations align with the Odisha Vision 2036 document, which emphasizes tourism’s role in economic development while preserving culture and providing livelihoods. The state’s approach is holistic, combining heritage conservation with innovation and global outreach. By implementing these initiatives in a “mission mode,” Odisha aims to become a future-ready tourism destination that offers a diverse range of experiences.
Speaking on the occasion, Smt. Pravati Parida, Deputy Chief Minister and Minister of Tourism, Government of Odisha, stated that this these three MoUs together represent the holistic vision of Odisha Tourism to conserve our heritage, to innovate our offerings, and to expand our global reach. She also highlighted that it is critical to undertake tourism implementation in a mission mode to make these three MoUs meaningful.
Speaking on the occasion, Shri Suryabanshi Suraj, Hon’ble Minister of Odia Language Literature & Culture, Government of Odisha, stated:
“It is a matter of deep honour to witness this historic collaboration between three esteemed institutions—the Department of Tourism, the Odia Language, Literature and Culture Department, and the Light of Buddhadharma Foundation International. This partnership is united by a profound objective: the preservation, promotion, and revival of Odisha’s unparalleled Buddhist legacy.”
Shri Balwant Singh, the Secretary of Tourism for the Government of Odisha role is central to the state’s tourism development. He oversees the implementation of key initiatives, including the recent Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with premier institutions like IIT Madras, the National Institute of Water Sports (NIWS), and the Light of Buddhadharma Foundation International (LBDFI). These partnerships are a core part of the state’s strategy to enhance its tourism sector.
These strategic collaborations reflect a holistic vision to conserve heritage, innovate offerings, and expand the state’s global reach. They are critical to positioning Odisha as a leading sustainable and culturally vibrant destination.