Bhubaneswar: In a proactive bid to position Odisha as a premier national and international destination, Shri Balwant Singh, Secretary of Tourism, Government of Odisha, has taken to the field, visiting district after district to engage directly with local stakeholders and review on-ground readiness.
His recent tour of Western Odisha, including visits to Nuapada and Balangir, reflects a grass-roots administrative approach aimed at transforming the state into a world-class tourism hotspot through collaborative ideas and robust infrastructure.
During his visit to Balangir, Shri Singh received a detailed memorandum submitted on behalf of Shri Kalikesh Narayan Singh Deo, MLA Balangir. The representation highlighted the immense potential of Western Odisha’s natural landscapes and called for the comprehensive development of the Arda and Gadadwar waterfalls.
The memorandum urged state authorities to officially designate these scenic sites, along with the adjacent villages of Budhadangar and Kudasingha, as recognized tourist destinations. Beyond putting Bolangir’s scenic spots and historic heritage on the national and state tourism maps, the initiative focuses on creating sustainable livelihood and entrepreneurship opportunities for local youth and women in hospitality, eco-tourism, and handicrafts.
Prior to his engagement in Balangir, Shri Singh carried out a thorough review in Nuapada district, where he directed administrative officials to accelerate foundational hospitality infrastructure. Emphasizing the need for quality accommodations and food services, he advised officials to identify suitable land parcels for establishing modern hotels, restaurants, and supporting tourism facilities.
During project review meetings, Shri Singh mandated that ongoing infrastructure initiatives be closely monitored to ensure timely execution. He laid strong emphasis on tourist safety, clean and hygienic environments, and elevated operational standards at wayside amenity centers across major transit corridors.
Through these targeted district tours and direct community dialogues, the Tourism Department under Shri Singh’s leadership is laying down a comprehensive blueprint to elevate Odisha’s hospitality ecosystem from the ground up.
Nuapada District Collector, Shri Madhusudan Das was happy to receive the advise of Secretary Tourism and promised to act accordingly.