Bhubaneswar: In a significant push towards economic development and citizen welfare, the Odisha State Cabinet, chaired by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, on Monday, approved a series of transformative initiatives spanning tourism infrastructure, irrigation, affordable housing, water supply, and urban rejuvenation.
Major Boost for Tourism and Hospitality
A flagship decision is the approval of the Land Bank for Hospitality Infrastructure Scheme under the Tourism Department. The initiative will identify and develop approximately 5,500 acres of government and private land across premier destinations including Puri, Konark Sun Temple, Chilika Lake, Dhauli, Hirakud Dam, Satkosia Tiger Reserve, Similipal and Bhitarkanika National Parks, Daringbadi, and several emerging spots like the Buddhist circuit and Talsari.
Announcing the decisions, Chief Secretary Anu Garg highlighted that the scheme aims to create ready-to-invest land parcels for hotels, resorts, eco-tourism projects, wellness retreats, and convention centres.
With an outlay of ₹1,500 crore (₹300 crore annually) over five years from 2026-27 to 2030-31, it is expected to attract large-scale private investment, generate employment, stimulate local economies, and establish Odisha as a leading eco-cultural tourism destination in Asia.
Urban Development and Housing Initiatives
To improve quality of life in the capital, the Cabinet approved the 24×7 water supply project for Bhubaneswar’s new urban zones under BDA’s Town Planning Schemes. Set for completion by April 2028, the ₹112.31 crore initiative will be executed by WATCO on an EPC basis, including five years of operation and maintenance. The project will modernise water infrastructure in emerging urban zones by drawing from the Mahanadi River, deploying extensive pipeline networks, constructing elevated reservoirs, and integrating advanced SCADA automation.
In a landmark move for urban renewal, the government sanctioned the ₹500 crore Waterfront Development Scheme over five years. Implemented by the Housing and Urban Development Department, it will rejuvenate riverfronts and water bodies across cities, focusing on ecological restoration, climate resilience, heritage conservation, tourism promotion, and creation of inclusive, vibrant public spaces.
The Chief Secretary highlighted that the initiative will revitalize river ecosystems, enhance urban livability, and boost tourism and cultural heritage. Additionally, the scheme strengthens climate resilience through advanced flood management while championing social inclusion by providing safe, accessible public spaces for everyone.
Relaxation of Stamp Duty & Registration Fees for EWS Beneficiaries
Additionally, the Cabinet approved a sharp reduction in stamp duty and registration fees for Economically Weaker Section (EWS) beneficiaries of Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana-Urban (PMAY-U) 2.0 as well as other state-run affordable housing schemes in such areas. Rates will drop sharply from 6-7% to 0.6-0.7%, depending on gender of the owner, providing major financial relief and accelerating affordable housing for urban poor families in line with central government guidelines.
The decision aligns with Union housing ministry guidelines mandating the states to cap such charges below 1% for dwelling units up to 60sqm under PMAY-U 2.0.
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