Bhubaneswar, Mar 27: The Argus News 5th edition of ‘Chalo Dekhein Apna Desh’ Tourism Conclave commenced in Bhubaneswar on Friday, with Odisha Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida outlining the state government’s vision to position Odisha among the top three tourism destinations in the country by 2036.

Speaking as the chief guest at the conclave, Parida elaborated on the state government’s vision for tourism development, emphasising the need for structural reforms, better marketing, and greater stakeholder participation.

“Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ‘Dekho Apna Desh’ initiative, there was a call to visit 15 tourist destinations across the country. For us, the target was to explore 15 tourist destinations within Odisha.

If we take the example of London’s tourism sector, we are far behind other countries in terms of marketing strategies. We have never viewed tourism as an industry or as a major employment generator. However, tourism creates both direct and indirect employment opportunities. The question is - who will take responsibility?"

"What is Odisha’s challenge today? Religious tourism is a major factor here. But what will tourists do after visiting temples? If we do not create two- or three-day tourism packages, they will not stay longer. Many tourists visit Puri for darshan and then move to Bhubaneswar for accommodation. What benefit does that bring to hotel owners in Puri?"

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Parida further said, "While forests are declining across the country, Odisha’s forest cover is increasing. Our coastline is also expanding. What makes Odisha unique? What will a tourist from outside come to see? We exist because we have Lord Jagannath. It is believed that Mahaprabhu comes to Odisha to eat and rest. Therefore, we must promote our food culture more aggressively.

We have forests and rich biodiversity. There are destinations like Bhitarkanika and Similipal. New tourism spots can be developed in every block and district. That is why Odisha is called a ‘best-kept secret’."

Parida added, "Before 2024, Odisha did not have a strong tourism policy. After coming to power, we introduced a new policy. Hotels are now being incentivised, and a policy for homestays has also been introduced.

We must create opportunities for photography, reels, and solo travelling. Tour operators have limited tourist plans only to Puri and Konark.

We have initiated caravan tourism, adventure tourism, hot air balloons, and water sports. An MoU has been signed with the Fire Services Department so that even their work can become a point of interest for tourists.

Tourism in Odisha will be developed keeping Gen Z in mind. The government has taken steps to develop the Lakshmi Purana Corridor, which will showcase women's empowerment. The Asta Shambhu Corridor has also been developed, where interpretation centres will help visitors learn about family values inspired by Lord Shiva’s family.

Recently, we created 1,174 kg of ‘Pakhala’ and entered the Guinness World Records. The Shamuka project, spread over 1,500 acres in Puri, aims to develop world-class tourism infrastructure.

In places like Puri, multiple opportunities must be created for people. This cannot be done by the government alone. If entrepreneurs come forward, the government will provide subsidies and incentives.

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There was a perception earlier that tourist destinations in Odisha were not clean. To address this, funds are being spent through self-help groups to improve cleanliness.

Our youth are more interested in working abroad rather than in Odisha. Odisha has abundant human resources, but local youth are not keen to work within the state. Even with the advent of AI, tourism will continue to require human resources.

I request Argus to continue showcasing Odisha’s tourism potential. The Tourism Department is already working in this direction. Many tourist destinations shared on Instagram are being tracked by the department."

We are planning to change our marketing style. Today, tourists have greater spending capacity, so we must design packages accordingly. Regional cuisine must be promoted. Visitors should be encouraged to try 'Pakhala'."

Odisha is home to people speaking different languages. The youth must come forward to start tourism-based businesses, including cruise ventures. The government will provide subsidies and incentives.

We cannot depend solely on the government. The younger generation must step up. Argus News should not stop here - the time has come to take tourism discussions to the grassroots level. Government incentives must be widely publicised.

By 2036, Odisha will rank among the top three states in tourism. The government is also considering developing Kunduli in Koraput district as a tourist destination.”

Delivering key note address at the conclave, Argus News CEO Prakash Sahu said that Centre, especially PM Narendra Modi, has a strong focus on Odisha; notes that over the past 10 years, ‘Odisha Parba’ has been organised in New Delhi on Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan’s call, showcasing and promoting the state’s culture and growth.

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Argus News Executive Editor Durgashish thanked the state government and said Odisha has emerged as the third top tourist destination in India in the last two years, highlighting growing recognition of sites like Debrigarh and Deomali along with Lord Jagannath’s legacy.

Alongside Deputy Chief Minister Parida, MLA Babu Singh and other dignitaries were present at the conclave.