HBI Staff | Hyderabad 
The Hotels and Restaurants Association of Odisha (HRAO) has submitted recommendations to the state government, urging amendments to the 2022 tourism policy in consultation with stakeholders and travel trade agencies. The suggestions were part of a letter addressed to Chief Minister Mohan Majhi, aiming to align Odisha’s tourism sector with the vision document, *‘Bikasita Bharata Pain Bikasita Odisha’*.
HRAO emphasized the urgent need to prioritize tourism infrastructure development, drawing inspiration from states like Goa, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Kerala. “Improving tourism infrastructure will significantly contribute to Odisha’s economic growth,” the letter stated.
The association raised concerns about misuse of the government’s land bank, which was intended for hotel construction in tourist destinations. HRAO alleged that influential builders have repurposed the land for shopping malls and apartments instead.
“To address the acute shortage of hotel rooms, we request the government to allocate land in key tourist destinations exclusively for select hoteliers. Increasing the number of star-category and luxury hotels in Odisha is crucial. Subsidies on land would greatly boost this sector,” HRAO stated.
The association also recommended that the government’s *Panthanivas* properties at various tourist destinations be managed under a public-private partnership (PPP) model by experienced hoteliers to enhance tourism potential.
Further, HRAO urged the Forest and Wildlife Department to lease eco-resorts to professional hoteliers. “This move will not only promote eco-tourism but also generate employment for locals and revenue for the state,” the association highlighted.
The recommendations aim to position Odisha as a competitive and thriving tourism destination while addressing gaps in infrastructure and accommodations.
SOURCE: TOI
