Odisha Signs MoU with IITTM to Boost Eco-Tourism Development

The Odisha government today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Centre-run Indian Institute of Tourism and Travel Management (IITTM) for overall development, marketing and planning support of eco-tourism products in the State.

The State Wildlife Organization, Bhubaneswar, under the Forest, Environment and Climate Change Department inked the MoU with IITTM on the occasion of inauguration of the 6th National Chilika Bird Festival, being jointly organized by the Department of Tourism and the Forest, Environment and Climate Change Department of the State government here today.

Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida, who graced the occasion as the Chief Guest, said that the annual arrival of migratory birds to Odisha’s coast is a clear indicator of the State’s favourable climate and healthy ecosystem.

Emphasizing the significance of protected and reserved forests, she stated that conservation of natural resources is the foundation of sustainable and responsible tourism.

She also highlighted the need to closely monitor the arrival, movement and habitat of migratory birds while strengthening conservation efforts to protect Chilika’s rich biodiversity.

Minister for Forest, Environment and Climate Change, Ganesh Ram Singh Khuntia speaking on the occasion reaffirmed that environmental conservation and protection remain a top priority of the Odisha government.

He noted that Chilika Lake, with its natural beauty and vibrant birdlife, is not only an ecological treasure but also a vital source of livelihood for local communities. The National Bird Festival, he added, would further enhance the prominence and appeal of Chilika.

Among other dignitaries who graced the occasion were Principal Secretary, Forest, Environment and Climate Change Department, Bhaskar Jyoti Sharma; Commissioner-cum-Secretary, Department of Tourism, Balwant Singh; Principal Chief Conservator of Forests and Head of Forest Force, Suresh Pant; and Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife) & Chief Wildlife Warden, Prakash Kumar Jha, along with senior officials, bird enthusiasts and subject experts.

Commissioner-cum-Secretary, Tourism Department, Balwant Singh, outlined the key initiatives of the department and highlighted the immense opportunities and potential of Chilika Lake as a premier eco-tourism destination.

PCCF Suresh Pant emphasized Chilika’s critical role in Odisha’s wildlife wealth and underscored its significance in sustaining the livelihoods of local communities.

On the occasion, several publications were released, including a pocket guide based on observations of around 150 million birds, a magazine on the life of flamingos, and a booklet on bird conservation in Odisha.

The welcome address was delivered by PCCF (Wildlife) & Chief Wildlife Warden Prakash Kumar Jha, while the vote of thanks was proposed by Additional PCCF (Wildlife) Dr. Manoj V. Nair.