The Hotel and Restaurant Association of Odisha (HRAO) has called upon the Odisha government to formulate a comprehensive master plan for the development of 15 key tourist destinations across the state and submit it to the Centre for financial assistance and strategic support. In a media statement, the association stressed the importance of structured and long-term planning to fully realise Odisha’s vast tourism potential.
HRAO recommended the preparation of both short-term (annual) and long-term (four-year) projections for tourist footfall growth, alongside a detailed assessment of infrastructure requirements at major destinations. The association further proposed that these projections be periodically reviewed during meetings of the State Tourism Promotion Council to facilitate timely course corrections and ensure effective policy implementation.
HRAO Chairman JK Mohanty reiterated the association’s demand to extend the Mahaparinirvan Express—currently operating between New Delhi and Bodhgaya—up to Puri. He stated that such an extension would significantly enhance Buddhist tourism in Odisha and strengthen the state’s position on the national and international Buddhist circuit. The association has also advocated for improved domestic air connectivity between Odisha and key destinations including Bodhgaya, Pune, Udaipur and Allahabad.
Additionally, HRAO has urged the government to expedite the proposed international airport project at Puri, envisioning it as a major aviation hub for eastern India. To further support the hospitality sector, the association has requested the provision of industrial electricity tariffs for hotels of all sizes, which would help reduce operational costs and encourage sectoral growth.
Among other recommendations, HRAO has suggested appointing a prominent film actor or actress as Odisha’s tourism brand ambassador to enhance the state’s visibility. It has also called for simplifying provisions under the SARAI Act and streamlining the process for obtaining fire licences to improve ease of doing business for hospitality operators.
Mohanty noted that the association’s 40th foundation day celebrations will bring together industry leaders and policymakers to assess progress and chart a roadmap for building a sustainable, globally competitive tourism sector in Odisha.
