Odisha Tourism signs three MoUs to boost heritage, adventure, and Buddhist tourism

Bhubaneswar, Aug 22 (UNI) In a major step towards positioning Odisha as a global tourism hub, the state government has signed three significant Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with leading institutions to promote heritage conservation, adventure tourism, and Buddhist pilgrimage circuits.

The agreements were signed yesterday between the Department of Tourism and three partners, Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT-M), the National Institute of Water Sports (NIWS), Goa, and the Light of Buddhadharma Foundation International (LBDFI) in collaboration with the Odia Language, Literature and Culture Department.

Under the MoU with IIT Madras, Odisha will adopt advanced scientific techniques for structural audits and conservation of heritage monuments.

The partnership will include detailed documentation, material testing, geo-technical studies, project reporting, and sustainable reuse plans. It will also provide project management consultancy support to ensure the long-term preservation of the state’s historic sites.
To strengthen water and adventure tourism, the Tourism Department has collaborated with NIWS, Goa.
This initiative will introduce international safety standards, safety audits, and capacity-building programmes for adventure operators, lifeguards, and service providers.
With Odisha’s long coastline and rich water resources, the government aims to unlock the sector’s potential while creating livelihood opportunities for local youth.

The third MoU, signed with LBDFI and the Odia Language, Literature & Culture Department, focuses on reviving Odisha’s Buddhist heritage and pilgrimage tourism.
Annual prayer ceremonies will be organised at iconic sites such as Ratnagiri, Udayagiri, Lalitagiri, and Dhauli.

The collaboration will also enhance visitor amenities, expand digital engagement platforms, and curate cultural and academic programmes showcasing Odisha’s Buddhist legacy and the teachings of Guru Padmasambhava.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida said the three MoUs reflect Odisha’s holistic vision to conserve heritage, diversify tourism, and expand its global presence.
“It is critical to implement these projects in mission mode to ensure meaningful outcomes,” she added.

Culture Minister Suryabanshi Suraj described the Buddhist tourism initiative as a historic partnership that will revive and showcase Odisha’s unparalleled cultural heritage.
Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja highlighted the role of tourism in Odisha’s Vision 2036, noting that the sector not only drives economic growth but also helps preserve culture and generate livelihoods.
Officials said the collaborations mark a milestone in building a resilient, inclusive, and future-ready tourism ecosystem.
With a combined focus on heritage, sustainable adventure, and cultural tourism, Odisha aspires to emerge as one of India’s most admired destinations in the coming years.