Bhubaneswar, March, 5: India is emerging as a powerful nation on the global map. Under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the resolve to build a “Developed India” by 2047 places tourism as a key driver of growth. In alignment with this national vision, we are steadily advancing toward the goals of “Viksit Odisha 2047” and “Utkarsha Odisha 2036,” giving a new identity to the state’s tourism industry.
In particular, by focusing on “Adventure Tourism,” we aim to promote economic progress while ensuring social inclusion. Tourism today is no longer limited to sightseeing; it is about meaningful experiences. The youth of today are enthusiastic about trekking, water sports, aerial adventure activities, and exploring nature. For Odisha, this presents a tremendous opportunity.
With over 550 kilometers of coastline, the vast Chilika Lake, the natural treasures of Similipal National Park and Bhitarkanika National Park, and the scenic Hirakud Dam reservoir, we are blessed with abundant natural resources. These are not merely tourist attractions; they are our inherent strengths, capable of transforming Odisha into a global adventure hub.
For the growth of any industry, a robust regulatory framework is essential. For the first time, the Odisha Government has established comprehensive guidelines for tourism activities, including classification of activities, mandatory safety standards, certification norms, insurance requirements, rescue preparedness, and monitoring mechanisms. The “Adventure Tourism Guidelines – 2023” mark a historic step in this direction, giving top priority to tourist safety.
Regulation and Transparency:
Through systems like “License to Operate” and “Registration to Set-Up,” only qualified and competent operators will be permitted. Our government’s objective is clear — to promote growth in the tourism sector while ensuring efficiency, regulation, and accountability.
Digital Solutions:
To streamline processes, the “Sugam Go-Adventure” portal has been launched, simplifying and accelerating procedures from application to approval. Adventure tourism involves risks and unforeseen challenges. Our goal is to minimize such risks to the lowest possible level.
To strengthen capacity and safety standards, we have partnered with premier institutions of India such as the Indian Mountaineering Foundation and Aero Club of India. These collaborations will provide world-class training and technical expertise to individuals working in the tourism sector.
Similarly, the Odisha State Watermanship and Lifeguard Institute established at Konark will set new benchmarks in water sports safety. This institute is dedicated to training lifeguards and water sports personnel. In the coming years, it is expected to gain international recognition and further strengthen our state’s training capacity. In addition, with the support of the Odisha Fire and Emergency Services, a specialized rescue team has been formed to ensure safety in adventure tourism activities.
Adventure tourism is not merely entertainment; it is a new avenue of employment for thousands of Odia youth. Our organized and strategic efforts will establish Odisha as a global hub of adventure tourism.
We invite the world — come and experience safe and unforgettable adventure tourism in Odisha. We firmly believe that this new chapter in Odisha’s tourism journey will enrich the state’s economy and serve as a milestone in realizing the dream of a “Developed Odisha.”
Deputy Chief Minister, Odisha
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