Odisha Charts a New Path with Agro-Tourism Workshop to Empower Rural Livelihoods and Boost Inclusive Tourism

Bhubaneswar: Odisha government organised a high-level Workshop on Agro-Tourism in Bhubaneswar. The event, hosted jointly by the Department of Tourism and the Department of Agriculture & Farmers’ Empowerment, brought together agro-landowners, progressive farmers, policymakers, and domain experts to explore how agro-tourism can unlock new livelihood avenues and stimulate rural economies across the state.

Co-chaired by Deputy Chief Minister and Minister of Tourism Pravati Parida and Deputy Chief Minister and Minister for Agriculture & Farmers’ Empowerment Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo, the workshop underscored the government’s integrated approach to rural development. Both leaders highlighted the convergence of agriculture and tourism as a powerful tool for promoting sustainable income, rural pride, and entrepreneurship among farming communities.

The discussions centred around the Vision 2036 development framework, which identifies 15 priority destinations for integrated tourism and agricultural development. The Department of Tourism is working to establish Agro-Tourism Units that will offer immersive rural experiences such as farm stays, traditional cuisine, nature trails, handicraft showcases, and participatory farming activities. These initiatives are aimed at creating new income streams for farmers, Self-Help Groups, and rural entrepreneurs, while strengthening the cultural and ecological appeal of Odisha’s countryside.

Officials from the Department of Tourism presented a roadmap for incorporating agro-tourism into the state’s wider tourism circuit. Discussions also addressed the role of the Mukhyamantri Krushi Udyog Yojana (MKUY), which offers financial support, training, and employment incentives for agro-tourism entrepreneurs. Experts from Maharashtra and other leading states shared successful case studies that illustrated the potential of agro-tourism to generate stable income, preserve cultural identity, and empower local communities.

The workshop featured keynote addresses by two prominent voices in sustainable tourism. Pandurang Taware, a pioneer of India’s agro-tourism movement, shared insights from his grassroots work in Maharashtra, showing how farming activities can be transformed into enriching rural tourism experiences. Jayram HR brought perspectives on responsible and community-driven tourism, highlighting real-world examples where rural enterprises have flourished through ecological stewardship and local participation.

Participants included enthusiastic agro-landowners, women SHG leaders, youth entrepreneurs, and development professionals, all committed to reshaping rural tourism in Odisha. Discussions highlighted the importance of training, digital visibility, policy convergence, and grassroots engagement in building a strong agro-tourism ecosystem.