By Bizodisha Bureau, Bhubaneswar, March 21, 2015 :

The minister also promised not only to develop the domestic circuits in the state but also help tap the state’s potential to ensure Odisha in global tourism map.

Reviewing the preparatory work of Nabakalebar in state secretariat here, Sharma said that Rs 600 crore has been earmarked for implementation of PRASAD scheme. Twelve culturally rich pilgrim towns of the country including Puri have been identified for development under the new Central scheme. Out of Rs 52 crore announced for the state under the scheme, Rs 50 crore has been released so far.

More funds will be provided to the state government as soon as the utilization certificate is furnished to the Centre, said Dr Sharma. Even under HRIDAY scheme Puri has been included and Rs 22 crore has been allocated.

The minister further informed that all related Central departments and ministries would be roped in to pump in more funds to develop vital infrastructure leading to Puri before Nabakalebar. Besides, a commemorative stamp and a coin would be released to make the Nabakalebar a truly memorable Global event.

“Also, a coffee table book and a documentary is being produced well before the event to attract more tourists to India and Odisha”, he added.

On tourism sector, the union minister said that his ministry has urged the finance Minister Arun Jaitley to relax present norms in such a way to help the hotel and hospitality sector grow on expected lines.

“As Prime Minister Sri Narendra Modi has become real Ambassador of Indian tourism in the international field, the stress is given on Holy and spiritual as well as cultural tourism in the country. Pilgrim towns like Puri will be developed and promoted”.

Sharma said altogether 12.36% direct and indirect employment came from tourism sector. It has a great potential in Odisha and Centre would not be lacking in its efforts to provide assistance in developing this sector as and when the feasible proposals come from the state.

With the Centre now focusing on development of Buddhist Circuits in the country, the Lalitgiri-Ratnagiri-Udayagiri-Langudi hills in Odisha would be developed, the minister said.

Participating in the review meeting the union petroleum minister Dharmendra Pradhan said, the Centre has provided altogether Rs 140 crore under various supportive schemes to promote tourism sector in Odisha.

“Centre will take all necessary steps for its global branding, as soon as concrete proposals reach the Centre”, Pradhan said and proposed cruise-liner service in joint collaboration of the sate and centre along the vast coastline of the state to attract domestic and foreign tourists. He also proposed the development of minor and medium air-ports in Odisha in collaboration with concerned industrial units and corporate houses.

State culture and tourism minister Ashok Panda, union culture secretary and state chief secretary were among those who attended the review meeting.