Odisha’s Untapped Tourism Gems: Governor Calls for a Unified Push Across All Districts

At the launch of the 7th Odisha Tourism Summit in Bhubaneswar, Governor Braj Mohan Ram made a point of stressing something that many of us already feel – the state’s tourism treasure isn’t limited to a handful of famous spots. From the serene backwaters of Chilika to the ancient stone carvings of Konark, every district has something that could draw a visitor if only it were properly showcased.

Speaking to a crowd that mixed government officials, hot‑shot investors and representatives of the Hotel and Restaurant Association of Odisha, the Governor said the time has come for an “integrated push.” In plain language, that means stitching together better roads, quality lodging, digital marketing and, crucially, the participation of local communities. He noted that such a holistic approach could turn remote villages into thriving hubs, creating jobs while preserving the very culture that makes them special.

He reminded the audience that tourism isn’t just about sightseeing; it’s a catalyst for a whole web of industries – from transport and hospitality to handicrafts, agriculture and small‑scale enterprises. “When a tourist stays a night, they eat local food, buy a handcrafted souvenir, maybe even hire a guide from the tribe. That ripple effect lifts whole neighborhoods,” the Governor explained, pausing to let the idea sink in.

Among the attractions he highlighted were the world‑renowned Jagannath Dham, the Sun Temple at Konark, the ancient temple city of Bhubaneswar, the sprawling coastline, the biodiverse Chilika Lake, as well as lesser‑known Buddhist sites, tribal festivals and wildlife sanctuaries. Each of these, he argued, deserves a spot on both national and international tourism maps.

Looking ahead, the Governor singled out four niche strands that could give Odisha a competitive edge: eco‑tourism, spiritual tourism, adventure tourism and MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions). He warned, however, that growth must be balanced with environmental stewardship – a point that resonated with the audience of policymakers and activists alike.

Wrapping up, he invoked the larger vision of a “Viksit Odisha, Viksit Bharat,” emphasizing that responsible tourism can empower youth, safeguard cultural identity and propel the state onto the global stage. The summit, he hoped, would translate this enthusiasm into concrete policies, funding packages and on‑the‑ground projects.

Other dignitaries present included MP Aparajita Sarangi, Consul General of India in Auckland Dr Madan Mohan Sethi and former Chief Secretary Gokul Chandra Pati, while Dr J K Mohanty of HRAO delivered the welcome address.