OTDC Celebrates 44th Foundation Day, Honours Excellence in Tourism Hospitality

Bhubaneswar, September 3: Odisha Tourism Development Corporation (OTDC) marked its 44th Foundation Day with a gala celebration, showcasing the rich tapestry of Odisha's cultural heritage and its commitment to promoting tourism in the state.

The event was held at the Kalinga Convention Hall in OTDC Panthanivas Bhubaneswar in presence of senior officials and staff from Dept. of Tourism and OTDC, bloggers and social media influencers, members from the tourism and travel fraternity of the state and media personnel.

The occasion commenced with prayer offerings to Lord Ganesha followed by the hoisting of OTDC Flag and a plantation drive to mark the 44th Foundation Day of the Corporation.

The dignitaries inaugurated 12 newly renovated rooms of Panthanivas Bhubaneswar on the occasion, which was made open for public booking.

The Foundation Day Event commenced with a lamp lighting ceremony by the esteemed dignitaries, following which a condolence note and silent prayer was held in memory of Former Speaker of Odisha Legislative Assembly Shri Surjya Narayan Patro who passed away last evening.

Chairman OTDC Dr. Lenin Mohanty, Chairperson Odisha State Commission for Women Dr. Minati Behera, Director Tourism and Managing Director OTDC Shri Sachin Ramchandra Jadhav, Addl. Secretary Tourism Balamukunda Bhuyan, Addl. Secretary Tourism Ananta Narayan Singh Laguri and noted Odia Actress Elina Samantaray were the distinguished guests on the occasion.

At the onset, Dr. Lalatendu Sahoo, General Manager, OTDC extended a warm welcome to all the dignitaries and highlighted the importance of OTDC in showcasing Odisha's tourism potential as well as its contribution towards the economic growth of the state. 

Speaking on the occasion, Director Tourism and Managing Director OTDC Sachin Ramchandra Jadhav said, “Odisha Tourism Development Corporation (OTDC) has been the change agent when the nation was grappling with pandemic, as it aimed to promote the huge untapped potential in the travel and tourism sector. I'm happy that OTDC is continuously launching new products like Odisha Walks, Boat Clubs in Silver City and Taladanda as well as putting in great efforts for the promotion of culinary tourism in the state. OTDC is undoubtedly the face of Odisha Tourism and is the flag bearer of tourism across the State. OTDC is not just a corporation but a mission which continuously strives for promotion of tourism in the state".

On this occasion, Chairman OTDC Dr. Lenin Mohanty spoke on the various initiatives taken up by OTDC and how OTDC has achieved so many milestones in the tourism sector.

"Over the years, OTDC has not only promoted tourism but has also contributed significantly to the state's economy by creating employment opportunities and boosting state’s businesses. It has played a pivotal role in preserving our cultural heritage and natural beauty, making Odisha a jewel in India's tourism crown", said Dr. Mohanty. 

As part of the Foundation Day Celebrations, the best-performing units of OTDC which have excelled in the last financial year were awarded by the management of the Corporation.

Panthanivas Puri was adjudged with the Best Performing Accommodation Unit (more than 30 Rooms) and Panthanivas Gopalpur was awarded the Best Performing Accommodation Unit (upto 30 Rooms). Nimantran Bhubaneswar was awarded as the Best Performing Award for Best Performing Transport Unit. 

Further, the Unit Managers of all accommodation units as well as Restaurants of OTDC Units that have consistently excelled in delivering exceptional services to tourists were felicitated.

These units have played a pivotal role in ensuring that visitors to Odisha have a memorable and enjoyable experience. Also, the OTDC Foundation Day Gift for all employees was presented to veteran employees of the corporation Smt. Bidu Naik, Attendant and Shri Kedar Barik, Cook.

The event also featured the felicitation of food-travel bloggers and social media influencers who have been instrumental in showcasing the beauty and cultural heritage of Odisha to a global audience. 

The 44th Foundation Day celebration of OTDC underscored the organization's commitment to promoting sustainable tourism, preserving cultural heritage, and creating memorable experiences for visitors to Odisha.

Prashant Kumar Panda Divisional Manager (Marketing) delivered the Vote of Thanks. Noted Odia Anchor Shovna Mishra was the compere on the occasion.