Bhubaneswar, January 9: The Odisha Cabinet has on Friday approved the Odisha Tourism (Amendment) Policy-2026, aimed at boosting the state's tourism sector and aligning it with Vision-2036 and 2047. This update builds on the 2022 policy, focusing on attracting investment, promoting sustainable tourism, and ensuring balanced regional development.

Key amendments include lowering the minimum investment threshold for 3-Star and above hotels and resorts from 50 to 10 rooms, in line with national norms, and simplifying expansion requirements for existing units. The Cabinet also introduced a revised Capital Investment Subsidy (CIS) framework, offering up to 40% subsidies for high-potential areas like Hirakud, Satkosia, and Bhitarkanika.

The policy also targets emerging tourism segments, including MICE, destination weddings, and electric mobility-based tourism. New incentives for museums, heritage properties, and sustainable tourism projects like electric boats and caravans have been introduced. Additionally, there are subsidies for promoting authentic Odia cuisine both within Odisha and in major metro cities.

To foster governance and stakeholder engagement, a State Tourism Advisory Council will be formed under the Tourism Minister’s chairmanship. These amendments are expected to attract private investment, create 15,000 new hotel rooms by 2036, and generate numerous employment opportunities. The policy will come into effect upon publication in the Official Gazette.