THEBUSINESSBYTES BUREAU

BHUBANESWAR, SEPTEMBER 19, 2026

Chief Secretary Anu Garg on Saturday stressed the need for ensuring transparency in the development of tourism in Odisha while calling for simplification of procedures and removal of bottlenecks related to land, permissions and project implementation to create a more conducive environment for investment in the sector.

Garg made the remarks while chairing the second meeting of the State Tourism Promotion Council (STPC), which discussed in detail issues concerning tourism infrastructure, availability of land, progress of ongoing projects and measures to facilitate investment in the state's tourism industry.

The meeting reviewed the implementation of decisions taken at the first meeting of the Council, including allocation of government land for tourism projects, establishment of Odia food restaurants, the tourism land bank scheme and development of various tourist destinations.

The Council held detailed discussions on the tourism land bank scheme aimed at facilitating the development of residential and other infrastructure related to the tourism sector. Emphasis was laid on establishing a clear mechanism for identification of land, determination of land use, allocation and subsequent management.

The meeting also stressed the need for GIS-based land mapping and a digital surveillance system to improve transparency and efficiency in the management of tourism land.

The Council considered a proposal relating to delays in implementation of various approved tourism projects and extension of their deadlines. Measures to reduce procedural delays and address hurdles relating to land and statutory permissions were also discussed, with emphasis on making the approval process simpler and time-bound for investors.

A proposal to establish Odia food restaurants in new cities and tourist destinations across the state also came up for discussion. The initiative was viewed as a means of showcasing Odisha's traditional cuisine and culinary heritage and strengthening its linkage with tourism.

The meeting also discussed a one-time solution for tourism units approved under the previous tourism policy but unable to avail themselves of incentive benefits due to various reasons.

Additional Chief Secretary, Industries Department, Hemant Sharma, Principal Secretary, Commerce and Transport Department, N B S Rajput, Commissioner-cum-Secretary, Tourism Department, Balwant Singh, and senior officials of concerned departments attended the meeting.

The Council also reviewed the progress of various decisions taken earlier and deliberated on measures to ensure their effective and timely implementation.