London: In a significant effort to enhance Odisha’s presence in the UK tourism market, a high-level delegation led by Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida today called on High Commissioner of India to the UK, Vikram Doraiswami, in London.
The delegation included Development Commissioner, Anu Garg, Tourism Secretary Balwant Singh, Tourism Director Samarth Verma, Additional Secretary to Chief Minister, Anupam Saha and other key officials from the Government of Odisha.
The discussions focused on strategies to promote Odisha’s rich cultural heritage, vibrant arts, and scenic beauty among UK and European tourists.
The High Commissioner provided valuable guidance on effectively networking with Destination Management Companies (DMCs) and tour operators, encouraging partnerships to attract more visitors to Odisha.
The Deputy Chief Minister highlighted Odisha’s comprehensive Tourism Policy, which offers attractive incentives for investors, particularly in eco-tourism, heritage tourism, and wellness sectors.
Shrimati Parida, who is the Minister for Tourism, emphasized State’s unique assets—stunning beaches, lush forests and wildlife sanctuaries, and revered temples—as well as its rich tradition in handicrafts and the performing arts.
In the evening, the Deputy Chief Minister connected with the Odia diaspora in Kent, where she inaugurated ‘Chilika,’ a new Indian restaurant inspired by Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon in Odisha.
The restaurant’s menu features authentic Odia cuisine among other Indian dishes, a celebration of the state’s culinary heritage.
She was joined by the Mayor of Bexley Councillor Sue Gower MBE JP, Councillor Rags Sandhu of Bexley Council, Councillor Avtar Sandhu of Dartford Council and Kent County Council, along with the executive members of the Odisha Society of the UK (OSUK), who all celebrated this cultural milestone.
This visit is part of Odisha Tourism’s participation at World Travel Market (WTM) London 2024, where the State aims to showcase its unique offerings to a global audience and explore avenues for collaboration with tourism leaders worldwide.
The event marks an important step in Odisha Tourism’s global outreach and is expected to foster greater cultural exchange and investment opportunities between Odisha and the UK, officials said.