Bhubaneswar: The Centre is committed to establishing Odisha’s unique flavours in the global market, while the state must aggressively promote its unique tourism assets, Union Tourism and Culture Minister Gajendra Singh Sekhawat said.
Inaugurating the 6th Odisha Travel Bazaar (OTB) in Bhubaneswar on Monday, the Union Minister said that Odisha must actively promote its tourism assets at national and international forums to establish its unique flavour in the global market.
Steps to enhance tourism infrastructure and experience will play a significant role in achieving this, Sekhawat said.
Organised by the department of Tourism in collaboration with the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI), the three-day event aims to promote Odisha’s diverse tourism offerings and foster business collaborations among stakeholders from across the globe.
“Sky is the limit for tourism potential in India. Amidst tough competition among the states, Odisha has everything starting from mountains, to jungles, wildlife, beautiful beaches, nature’s bounty, adventure and architecture, history and culture. These unique features must be promoted and marketed properly,” the Union Minister said.
Speaking on the occasion, Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida emphasised the importance of private sector participation in tourism. “Odisha offers a diverse range of tourism experiences, including nature tourism, heritage tourism, and spiritual tourism. Our tourism potential remains largely untapped. To realise this potential, now is the time to develop new ideas, and we welcome the private sector to do business in Odisha. The government will make policies, but business will be done by you. Tourism growth in Odisha will catalyde increased employment opportunities, stimulate economic growth, and propel Odisha towards becoming a developed state,” she said.
The Deputy CM further stressed the state’s commitment to sustainable tourism development. “We aim to create a tourism ecosystem that benefits local communities, preserves our cultural heritage, and protects our environment,” she said, outlining the state government’s initiatives to develop tourism infrastructure and promote Odisha’s diverse offerings. Urged to unveiled the secret gems of Odisha.
Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja highlighted the significance of tourism in economic development. “We believe tourism will play a vital role in Odisha’s growth story. Private sector investment will be fundamental to driving tourism growth. The Government’s role is crucial in providing infrastructure and policy support. We will focus on creating an enabling environment through intensive infrastructure development and policies that foster investment.”
Balwant Singh, Tourism Commissioner-cum-Secretary, shared the government’s vision, emphasizing Odisha’s diverse tourism destinations and infrastructure. “We will become facilitators, expecting investors and better experiences in the coming days,” he added.
Tourism Director Samarth Verma noted the progress made in strengthening Odisha’s tourism sector. “Our efforts have already yielded remarkable developments. Odisha Travel Bazaar 2025 will foster impactful collaborations, create new opportunities, and drive a shared vision for the future of Odisha’s tourism sector.”
J.K. Mohanty, Co-Chair, FICCI Tourism Committee & Lifetime Chairman, HRAO, proposed inviting travel agents and tour operators to stay for at least seven nights in Odisha from next year’s event. “This extended stay will provide them with a more immersive experience, allowing them to explore Odisha’s diverse attractions and gain a deeper understanding of the state’s rich cultural heritage.”
Several industry leaders, including IATO Odisha Chapter Chairman Gagan Sarangi, Distinct Destination CEO Nitesh Kakkar, Chief Storyteller of Terranova Representations (Israel) Dov Kalmann, Horizon Holidays’ Kashmira Thaker, Nabagunjara Travels MD Timir Baran Pattanaik, and shared their unique experiences and insights on Odisha’s natural, cultural, and heritage beauty. Celebrity Chef Ranveer Brar lauded about the variety the Odia cusine offers to the world.
Additionally, the event features exciting competitions such as Explore Odisha Quiz – Challenge Yourself & Win and the Odisha Tourism Tagline Competition to engage participants.
With over 3,000 pre-scheduled B2B meetings between 70 sellers from Odisha’s tourism sector and domestic and international tour operators, the event aims to foster long-term business relationships.
Familiarisation trips have also been arranged to key destinations, including Bhitarkanika, Raghurajpur, Puri-Konark, and the Diamond Triangle, offering firsthand experiences of Odisha’s unique attractions.
