Odisha Tourism Positioned as Growth Engine: Deputy CM at FHRAI Convention
Odisha Deputy Chief Minister Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo highlighted tourism as a transformative driver of economic growth while addressing the FHRAI Annual Convention in Varanasi.
Speaking under the theme “Ananta Kashi: Leading the Future of Tourism through Spirit, Culture, Cuisine, and Craft”, he emphasised the civilizational bond between Kashi and Puri, symbolising the unity of Hari and Hara.
Singh Deo underscored that tourism in Odisha is not limited to travel but extends to agriculture, local crafts, transport, and clean energy.
Hotel stays, he noted, directly benefit farmers, artisans, and entrepreneurs. He urged hospitality leaders to source locally and adopt sustainable energy practices.
The Deputy CM called for stronger collaboration between government, industry, and communities to build regional tourism circuits linking Odisha with Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal, and beyond.
He concluded with a responsible tourism ethos: “Take nothing but memories; leave nothing but footprints.”
By positioning tourism as an inclusive ecosystem rooted in heritage and sustainability, Odisha aims to maximise prosperity while preserving its cultural identity.
