Odisha Marks World Tourism Day 2026 with Digital, Eco-Friendly Push
Bhubaneswar: Odisha celebrated World Tourism Day 2026 at the State Convention Centre, Lok Seba Bhawan, unveiling a series of initiatives under the theme “Digital Agenda and Artificial Intelligence to Redesign Tourism.”
Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida and Chief Secretary Anu Garg graced the occasion.
Key highlights included the signing of MoUs with the State Bank of India for financial support to rural homestay owners, the Archaeological Survey of India for heritage preservation, and the Indian Kayaking & Canoeing Association to expand adventure tourism.
Seventeen families received provisional registration certificates under the Homestay Scheme.
Mobility and eco-tourism took centre stage with the launch of OTDC luxury coaches, an electric boat at Barkul, and a catamaran at Chilika Lake.
Training workshops for homestay operators and an ethnic tourism workshop emphasised community participation.
A Light & Sound Show at Khandagiri was inaugurated, blending modern technology with Odisha’s ancient heritage.
These initiatives reflect Odisha’s commitment to sustainable tourism, digital innovation, and inclusive growth, positioning the state as a forward-looking destination for global travellers.
