Bhubaneswar, Odisha – Odisha, often referred to as the soul of Incredible India, showcased its ambitious tourism roadmap at the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) 2025. The special tourism session, themed “Unravelling India’s Best Kept Secret,” brought together industry leaders, government officials, and private sector experts to discuss Odisha’s untapped potential as a global tourism destination.
The session featured a distinguished panel of speakers, including Odisha’s Deputy Chief Minister and Tourism Minister, Smt. Pravati Parida; renowned tourism and economic policy expert Shri Amitabh Kant; Dr. Jyotsna Suri, Chairperson of The Lalit Suri Hospitality Group; culinary icon Shri Sanjeev Kapoor; Weddingline Co-Founder Shri Chetan Vohra; and Odisha Tourism Commissioner-cum-Secretary Shri Balwant Singh.
The event began with a captivating video showcasing Odisha’s iconic landmarks, such as the Konark Sun Temple, Jagannath Temple, Chilika Lake, and vibrant festivals like the Rath Yatra. In her inaugural address, Smt. Pravati Parida emphasized Odisha’s commitment to sustainable tourism development, aligning with the state’s Vision 2047 roadmap.
Keynote Insights
Shri Amitabh Kant, in his keynote address, highlighted Odisha’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. He urged the state to leverage its unique strengths, saying, “Odisha must brand itself with pride and ensure its offerings are world-class. The aim should be to be the best, not second best.”
Panel Discussion: Unlocking Odisha’s Potential
Akshita M Bhanj Deo, Director of The Belgadia Palace, moderated an engaging panel discussion.
Key insights from the panelists included:
- Smt. Pravati Parida highlighted the role of women in Odisha’s tourism growth, noting that over 70 lakh women empowered through Mission Shakti are driving agro-tourism, spiritual tourism, and cultural tourism. “Women are reshaping Odisha’s tourism narrative and inspiring inclusive development,” she said.
- Dr. Jyotsna Suri emphasized the need to promote Buddhism and tribal culture as niche tourism segments. She also called for public-private partnerships to enhance skills in the tourism sector.
- Sanjeev Kapoor celebrated Odisha’s culinary heritage, stating, “Memories of food last a lifetime. Odisha must bring its cuisine to the forefront and showcase its unique flavors to the world.”
- Chetan Vohra highlighted Odisha’s potential as a luxury wedding destination. “Odisha has everything needed for milestone celebrations. The state must shout out its secrets to the world,” he said.
- Shri Balwant Singh outlined Odisha’s long-term tourism vision under Vision 2047, focusing on eco-tourism and cultural tourism. He also discussed initiatives like the Odisha Tourism Policy 2022, Adventure Tourism Policy, and the upcoming Homestay Establishment Scheme to attract investment and create unique travel experiences.
Path Forward
The session concluded with an interactive Q&A, where delegates expressed enthusiasm for Odisha’s tourism potential. Key announcements included plans to develop 15 priority destinations, enhance marketing strategies, and foster deeper collaboration with the private sector.
Odisha’s participation at PBD 2025 marks a significant step in its journey to becoming a global tourism leader. The state invites stakeholders worldwide to collaborate in realizing this vision.
About Pravasi Bharatiya Divas 2025
The 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas, hosted in Bhubaneswar, celebrates the Indian diaspora’s contributions under the theme “Diaspora: Partners in Progress and Innovation.” The event highlights Odisha’s cultural richness, tourism treasures, and investment opportunities, positioning the state as a hub for global engagement.
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