Odisha, India, is set to revolutionize its tourism sector with a new rural tourism initiative slated for 2025. This ambitious project, a collaborative effort between the Tourism and Agriculture departments, aims to integrate agricultural practices with tourism, offering unique experiences for travelers.
Fifteen priority destinations have been selected for integrated rural tourism development. These locations will provide tourists with hands-on agricultural activities, nature trails, opportunities to create handicrafts, and the chance to savor local cuisine made with fresh, farm-sourced ingredients.
The selected destinations include Koraput, Raghurajpur, Gopalpur, Kandhamal, Daringbadi, and others, each offering a unique glimpse into Odisha's cultural and agricultural diversity. The initiative is supported by the Mukhyamantri Krushi Udyog Yojana (MKUY), which provides financial aid and training to agro-tourism entrepreneurs.
The program's primary focus is to involve women's self-help groups and young entrepreneurs, ensuring that the benefits reach the grassroots level while preserving local culture. The state government is also finalizing the Odisha Adventure Tourism Guidelines-2025, aiming to position Odisha as a premier adventure tourism destination.
This initiative is designed to provide tourists with authentic experiences while promoting sustainable economic growth in rural communities. The first phase of training for self-help group members is scheduled to begin next month, marking the beginning of this exciting project.