Bhubaneswar: “OTDC has been the change agent since the time the nation was grappling with pandemic. The corporation aims to promote the huge untapped potential in the travel and tourism sector,” OTDC Director Sachin Ramchandra Jadhav said while speaking at an event organised to celebrate the corporation’s 44th Foundation Day at Panthanivas in City Sunday.
The event was held at the Kalinga Convention Hall in OTDC Panthanivas in presence of senior officials from department of Tourism and OTDC, bloggers and social media influencers, members from the tourism and travel fraternity of the state and media personnel.
OTDC Chairman Lenin Mohanty said, “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.”
On this occasion, the OTDC flag was hoisted followed by a plantation drive.
The dignitaries inaugurated 12 newly renovated rooms of Panthanivas which was made open for public booking.
As part of the Foundation Day celebrations, the best-performing units of OTDC which excelled in the last financial year were awarded by the management of the Corporation. Panthanivas Puri was adjudged the best performing accommodation unit (more than 30 rooms) and Panthanivas Gopalpur was awarded the best performing accommodation unit (up to 30 rooms). Nimantran Bhubaneswar bagged the best performing transport unit award.
Also, the OTDC foundation day gift for all employees was presented to veteran employees attendant Bidu Naik and cook Kedar Barik.
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 guests present at the event included Odisha State Commission for Women Chairperson Minati Behera, Addl. Secretary Tourism Balamukunda Bhuyan, Addl. Secretary Tourism Ananta Narayan Singh Laguri and noted Odia actress Elina Samantaray.
PNN