NRAI Odisha Chapter Launches to Propel State’s Culinary Growth
The hospitality landscape in Odisha witnessed a significant development today with the formal inauguration of the NRAI Odisha Chapter. Launched in Bhubaneswar by the National Restaurant Association of India (NRAI), the country's apex body for the food service industry, this new chapter is poised to revolutionize the state’s food service ecosystem. The initiative focuses on attracting fresh investments, streamlining policy advocacy, and elevating Odisha’s status as a premier culinary and tourism hub.
The timing of this launch is crucial for the local economy. Currently, the food services sector is a heavyweight contributor to the state, accounting for 13.09% of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP). With a projected growth rate of 10.57% for the 2023-24 fiscal year and the state’s GSDP expected to touch $125.3 billion by 2025, the potential for expansion is immense. Cities like Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, Rourkela, and Puri are already seeing a rapid rise in cloud kitchens, modern cafés, and tourism-centric eateries.
Uniting the Industry
Sameer Hans, the Co-Founder of Bocca Café who has taken charge as the Chapter Head, highlighted the fragmented nature of the current market. He noted that while there are roughly 8,000 food and beverage establishments across the state, the goal is to organize this sector. "We aim to bring at least 1,500 of these businesses under the NRAI Odisha Chapter umbrella within two years," Hans stated. He emphasized that this movement is about more than just numbers; it is about empowering entrepreneurs and amplifying the industry's voice on policy matters.
Investment and Future Roadmap
The launch also signaled massive financial confidence in the region. Punya Prakash Parida, Promoter of Embassy Club, announced a staggering commitment of over ₹1,000 crore toward upcoming leisure and hotel projects. He expressed optimism that the NRAI’s presence would facilitate the 'ease of doing business' and attract global brands to the state.
Sagar Daryani, President of NRAI, remarked on the richness of the local culture, ranging from tribal flavors to temple cuisine. He assured that the new local leadership would prioritize skill development and help homegrown Odia brands scale up to a national level.
Leadership Team
To steer these ambitious goals, a core committee has been established:
This unified platform hopes to resolve industry challenges like GST rationalization while putting Odisha’s unique food heritage on the national map.
