The Hotel and Restaurant Association of Odisha organised its fourth Odisha Tourism Conclave on September 18 with theme “Tourism to be the driving force of State economy”. Like earlier years, the HRAO suggested various promotional initiatives and action plans to the State Government for development of the tourism sector. Experts from the field of travel trade, media, performing arts, bloggers, content writers, adventure sports, airlines, digital marketing and branding, food connoisseur, film makers, eco-tourism lovers, academicians, bureaucrats, MPs, Central and State Ministers participated. Recently, Union Tourism Secretary Yogendra Tripathi has assured that tourism potential of Odisha will find a due place in publicity campaigns undertaken by the Centre in both domestic and global forums. Stating that Odisha has several iconic tourist destinations including virgin beaches and natural sites, the Union Secretary assured that publicity materials of the State will be available at overseas tourist offices of the Government of India so that foreigners can know more about Odisha’s potential. Tripathi lauded the State Government for successfully organising the World Cup Hockey. “When there is any discussion on sports promotion, Odisha always finds a mention,” he said.
