Odisha launches new tourism policies and MICE portal to attract investment

At the 7th Odisha Travel Bazaar in Bhubaneswar, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi announced significant measures to transform the state into a global tourism hub. The government has introduced the Odisha Tourism (Amendment) Policy 2026, which reduces the minimum room requirement for star-category hotels from 50 to 10 and increases the capital subsidy ceiling from Rs 20 crore to Rs 120 crore. To support infrastructure, a Rs 1,500-crore budget has been approved for a 5,500-acre land bank for the 2026-31 period.

New investment proposals totaling Rs 11,509 crore have been received, with the potential to create 1.20 lakh jobs. These proposals include hospitality units across various districts, such as Khurda, Cuttack, and Koraput.

Additionally, Odisha has launched India’s first dedicated MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) Incentive Portal. Inaugurated by Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida, the digital platform aims to market the state for corporate conventions and streamline financial incentive applications. To enhance visitor security, the state will deploy Tourist Police at 29 major destinations and 1,000 lifeguards at beaches.