Odisha wins top honours at IITM Chennai for Innovative Tourism

Bhubaneswar, Jul 19: Odisha has earned national recognition by winning two prestigious awards at the India International Travel Mart (IITM) held in Chennai: “Responsible Tourism Initiative of the Year” and “Best Overall Exhibitor.” These accolades highlight the state’s growing reputation for sustainable, inclusive, and immersive tourism practices.

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The “Responsible Tourism Initiative” award celebrates Odisha’s efforts to promote sustainable travel by involving local communities, preserving cultural heritage, and ensuring environmental conservation. The state’s tourism model emphasizes community participation, empowering locals while offering visitors an authentic and meaningful travel experience.

The “Best Overall Exhibitor” award acknowledges Odisha’s standout presence at the IITM. With vibrant displays, rich storytelling, and a compelling showcase of the state’s natural and cultural attractions, Odisha successfully captivated both tourism professionals and visitors.

Tourism officials have said these awards reflect Odisha’s balanced strategy of blending modern tourism experiences with age-old traditions. By prioritizing responsible tourism and giving local voices a central role, Odisha is positioning itself as a leading destination in sustainable and high-value tourism.

These twin victories at IITM Chennai not only enhance Odisha’s profile on the national tourism map but also affirm its vision of becoming a model for responsible and experiential travel in India.