Bhubaneswar: To promote Odisha as a premier global tourism destination, the state government on Thursday signed three strategic Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) to strengthen heritage conservation, promote adventure and water-based activities, and revive its rich Buddhist legacy. The ceremony at Lok Seva Bhavan was attended by Pravati Parida, Deputy Chief Minister (Tourism), Suryabanshi Suraj, Minister for Odia Language, Literature & Culture, and Manoj Ahuja, Chief Secretary, Government of Odisha.
Speaking on the occasion, Deputy Chief Minister Parida said the MoUs reflect Odisha’s holistic vision to conserve heritage and diversify tourism offerings. “It is critical to implement these projects in mission mode to ensure they yield meaningful outcomes,” she emphasised. Culture Minister Suraj called the Buddhist tourism initiative a “historic partnership that will revive and promote Odisha’s unparalleled cultural heritage.” Chief Secretary Ahuja highlighted the sector’s role in “Odisha’s Vision 2036, not only contributing to economic development but also preserving culture and creating livelihoods.”
The Department of Tourism signed agreements with three institutions: the 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 & Culture Department.
Under the MoU with IIT Madras, advanced scientific techniques will be deployed for structural audits and conservation of heritage monuments. The collaboration will cover detailed documentation, geo-technical investigations, and sustainable reuse planning to ensure long-term preservation of historic sites.
To expand adventure and water tourism, Odisha has tied up with NIWS, Goa. This initiative will introduce globally accepted safety protocols, capacity-building programmes for operators and lifeguards, and international-standard service frameworks. With its 480-km coastline and rich water resources, the state sees vast potential for adventure tourism as a new livelihood driver.
The third MoU, with LBDFI and the Culture Department, focuses on reviving Buddhist heritage. Annual prayer ceremonies will be held at Ratnagiri, Udayagiri, Lalitagiri and Dhauli, along with improved visitor amenities, digital engagement platforms, and curated cultural and academic programmes.
Officials said these partnerships will help Odisha build a resilient, inclusive, and future-ready tourism ecosystem. With a balanced focus on heritage, adventure, and spiritual tourism, the state aims to emerge as one of India’s most admired and sustainable destinations in the years ahead.
