Bhubaneswar: Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida chaired a review meeting at Tourism Bhawan, Bhubaneswar to assess the preparations for the upcoming Eco Retreats across Odisha. The meeting focused on ensuring quality tourism infrastructure, seamless operations, enhanced visitor experiences and meaningful participation of local communities in the state’s growing tourism ecosystem.
During the review, the Deputy Chief Minister emphasised that local employment must remain a key priority in the planning and operation of Eco Retreats. She directed officials to ensure that local youth and communities are given adequate employment opportunities and are actively involved in various tourism-related activities.
The DCM stressed the need for reliable power supply, proper road connectivity and adequate supporting infrastructure at all the identified locations. She also emphasised the importance of well-planned operational arrangements to ensure a seamless and comfortable experience for tourists.
Highlighting the potential of adventure tourism, Smt. Parida called for introducing adventure sports and recreational activities wherever feasible. She further underscored the need to showcase Odisha’s rich cultural heritage through local art, traditions and cultural experiences. Engagement of local artisans, craftsmen and entrepreneurs was identified as an important component of the initiative to strengthen the local economy.
Tourist safety and healthcare arrangements also received special attention during the meeting. The Deputy Chief Minister stressed the installation of CCTV surveillance systems, adequate security arrangements and the availability of paramedic and basic healthcare facilities at the Eco Retreat sites to ensure the safety and well-being of visitors.
The Eco Retreats are proposed to be organised at eight destinations across Odisha:
1. Konark
2. Sonapur Beach
3. Daringbadi
4. Talamali (New)5. Kolab (New)
6. Hirakud
7. Satkosia
8. Kusumbandh (New)
The Deputy Chief Minister emphasised that Eco Retreats should go beyond providing accommodation and emerge as holistic tourism experiences that promote Odisha’s natural beauty, cultural identity, adventure potential and local livelihoods.
The meeting was attended by Balwant Singh, Commissioner-cum-Secretary, Tourism Department, Lipsa Das, Special Secretary, Tourism Department, along with senior officials of the Department and Odisha Tourism Development Corporation (OTDC), and other technical experts and tourism stakeholders.
