Bhubaneswar: In a major push to promote the state’s rich culinary heritage, the Odisha government has issued detailed guidelines for incentivising Odia cuisine restaurants both within the state and across key locations in India. The initiative forms part of the Odisha Tourism (Amendment) Policy, 2026.
Stringent Eligibility Criteria Set for Restaurants
The Tourism Department has laid down eight specific conditions that restaurants must fulfil to qualify for financial incentives. Applicants need to demonstrate clear land ownership or a valid lease agreement. Establishments must have a minimum seating capacity of 25 guests, a hygienic and fully functional kitchen, and a minimum investment of Rs 20 lakh (excluding land and building costs).
Other mandatory requirements include employing trained and experienced staff proficient in traditional Odia culinary practices, providing clean and adequate public restrooms, and ensuring parking facilities as per applicable building bylaws. Additionally, menus must prominently display Odia cuisine offerings in both Odia and English languages.
Capital Support up to Rs 5 Crore
The policy offers both capital expenditure (CAPEX) and operational expenditure (OPEX) incentives to eligible restaurants specialising in Odia cuisine. Under the CAPEX component, the government will reimburse up to 30% of eligible project costs, subject to a ceiling of Rs 5 crore per unit. The reimbursement will be disbursed in three instalments: 50% after one year of commercial operations, 25% after the second year, and the remaining 25% after the third year.
For restaurants in Odisha, eligible components include furnishing, interiors, kitchen equipment, repair and renovation, and civil works. Restaurants outside the state can claim support for furnishing, interiors, and kitchen equipment only.
Operational Incentives to Cut Costs
To help reduce running costs, the policy provides OPEX support through electricity and tax reimbursements. Restaurants located within Odisha will receive reimbursement equivalent to twice their monthly electricity charges in the first year, followed by electricity charges and State GST in the second and third years. Restaurants outside Odisha will get reimbursement of twice the monthly electricity charges for all three years.
In both cases, the total support is capped at Rs 2 lakh per unit per month.
Limited Slots in Major Cities and Tourist Spots
The incentives will be available at government-notified tourist destinations within Odisha. Outside the state, the scheme is restricted to five major metro cities—Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, Chennai, and Kolkata with a maximum of five units permitted per city. Additionally, five prominent tourist destinations — Agra, Varanasi, Goa, Kochi, and Jaipur — will be eligible for a maximum of two units each.
All incentive claims will be verified and processed by an Odia Culinary Committee specially constituted by the Tourism Department. The move is expected to encourage authentic Odia dining experiences and elevate the state’s culinary presence on the national map.
