Bhubaneswar, 20th August 2025
The Department of Tourism, Government of Odisha, entered into three significant Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with premier national and international institutions, furthering the State’s vision of establishing Odisha as a leading sustainable and culturally vibrant global tourism destination. The three MoUs focusing on scientific conservation of heritage structures, promotion of adventure tourism, and strengthening of Buddhist pilgrimage tourism represent a comprehensive and integrated approach to tourism development in the State.
Remarks from the Hon’ble Chief Secretary
Speaking on the occasion, Shri Manoj Ahuja, Chief Secretary, Government of Odisha, stated:
“As highlighted in the Odisha Vision 2036 document, tourism has a very large role to play and the fact that tourism can bring about economic development while preserving our culture and give livelihood to people, is a strategy on which we are working on.”
MoU with Indian Institute of Technology, Madras (IIT-M)
Odisha Tourism has partnered with IIT Madras to facilitate the scientific structural audit and conservation of selected heritage properties and sites in Odisha. This collaboration will leverage advanced techniques in documentation, material testing, and geo-technical investigations to ensure the long-term sustainability of these historical heritage.
The collaboration also includes the preparation of Detailed Project Reports (DPRs), adoption of sustainable architectural standards, development of site-specific reuse plans, and provision of Project Management Consultancy support for restoration initiatives. The partnership is expected to significantly enhance the quality and impact of conservation efforts across the State.
MoU with National Institute of Water Sports (NIWS), Goa
Recognising the potential of Odisha’s vast coastline and water-based resources, the Department of Tourism has signed an MoU with NIWS to advance adventure and water tourism in the State. NIWS will provide technical expertise on safety protocols, conduct safety audits, and offer capacity-building programmes for adventure tourism operators, lifeguards, and adventure service providers.
This initiative is aimed at promoting safe, standardised, and internationally compliant adventure tourism practices, while simultaneously generating employment opportunities for Odisha’s youth and expanding the scope of tourism offerings.
MoU with Odia Language, Literature & Culture Department and Light of Buddhadharma Foundation International (LBDFI)
In a landmark cultural partnership, the Department of Tourism and Department of Odia Language, Literature & Culture has collaborated with LBDFI to promote Odisha’s Buddhist heritage and pilgrimage circuits. This MoU includes the conduct of annual prayer ceremonies at key heritage sites such as Ratnagiri, Udayagiri, Lalitagiri, Dhauli, etc., the development of visitor amenities, installation of digital engagement infrastructure, and the curation of cultural and academic activities rooted in Odisha’s Buddhist legacy and the teachings of Guru Padmasambhava.
This collaboration is poised to enhance visitor experiences and firmly establish Odisha’s position on global Buddhist circuits, while contributing to cultural tourism and community-based development.
Remarks from the Hon’ble Minister of Odia Language Literature & Culture Department
Speaking on the occasion, Shri Suryabanshi Suraj, Hon’ble Minister of Odia Language Literature & Culture, Government of Odisha, stated:
“It is a matter of deep honour to witness this historic collaboration between three esteemed institutions the Department of Tourism, the Odia Language, Literature and Culture Department, and the Light of Buddhadharma Foundation International. This partnership is united by a profound objective: the preservation, promotion, and revival of Odisha’s unparalleled Buddhist legacy.”
Towards a Resilient and Inclusive Tourism Ecosystem
These strategic collaborations reaffirm Odisha Tourism’s commitment to building a unified, highimpact tourism ecosystem combining heritage conservation, cultural promotion, and sustainable adventure tourism. Through institutional partnerships, skill-building, and infrastructure enhancement, Odisha is moving decisively toward becoming one of India’s most admired and future-ready tourism destinations.
Remarks from the Hon’ble Deputy Chief Minister
Speaking on the occasion, Smt. Pravati Parida, Hon’ble Deputy Chief Minister and Minister of Tourism, Government of Odisha, stated that this these three MoUs together represent the holistic vision of Odisha Tourism to conserve our heritage, to innovate our offerings, and to expand our global reach. She also highlighted that it is critical to undertake tourism implementation in a mission mode to make these three MoUs meaningful.
