Bhubaneswar/Jaipur: Odisha was lauded for its efforts to develop tourism, at the Meet in India Conclave held in Jaipur, Rajasthan, on Sunday.
Representing Odisha at the event were deputy chief minister Prabhati Parida, commissioner-cum-secretary of tourism Balwant Singh, and senior officials from the department. The conclave focused on promoting MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) tourism across India, with Odisha emerging as a key player with significant potential in the segment.
The delegation from the state presented Odisha’s roadmap for attracting global visitors and investors. They highlighted the vast cultural heritage, scenic landscapes, and modern infrastructure that make Odisha a compelling destination for travellers.
Union minister for tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat praised the initiatives taken by the Odisha government, calling them exemplary and a model for other states to follow.
He emphasised the role of sustainable tourism and assured continued central support in promoting Odisha as a national and international tourist hub.
During the event, investors and tourism stakeholders engaged in discussions on enhancing Odisha’s hospitality sector, digital tourism, and eco-tourism projects. The delegation from Odisha highlighted the state’s aims to host high-profile conventions and exhibitions to boost economic growth.
Parida highlighted the untapped tourism potential of Odisha and emphasized the state’s commitment to inviting investments in the sector. She also engaged in discussions with prominent investors, exploring opportunities to develop MICE tourism infrastructure in the state.
She reinforced Odisha’s commitment to tourism expansion, inviting investors to explore opportunities within the state’s coastal retreats, heritage sites, and adventure tourism sectors.
The conclave concluded with a call for collaborations between the public and private sectors to ensure Odisha’s tourism aspirations reach their full potential.
The conclave was also attended by Rajasthan deputy chief minister Divya Kumari, apart from industry leaders and government representatives from across the country.
