Tourism has emerged as a major thrust area in the Union Budget 2026–27, with Odisha positioned to reap substantial benefits from eco-tourism initiatives and enhanced regional connectivity. Recognised as a significant contributor to the national economy, tourism accounts for 5.22% of India’s GDP (total impact) and supports 13.34% of total employment, according to the India Tourism Data Compendium 2025.
For Odisha, one of the most notable announcements is the development of dedicated turtle trails along prominent nesting sites in coastal regions. The state is globally known for the mass nesting of Olive Ridley turtles at Gahirmatha Beach and Rushikulya rookery. The proposed eco-tourism initiative aims to promote biodiversity-based tourism while ensuring conservation-centric development practices.
The Budget also places Odisha among the five Purvodaya states—alongside Bihar, Jharkhand, West Bengal, and Andhra Pradesh—earmarked for focused tourism infrastructure expansion. Under this integrated development framework, one major tourism destination in each state will be developed to accelerate regional economic growth and create employment opportunities.
Additionally, the expansion of rail and regional connectivity, improvements in transport infrastructure, and the deployment of 4,000 electric buses are expected to enhance accessibility to tourist hotspots across Odisha. These measures are likely to increase tourist inflow and generate livelihood opportunities in sectors such as hospitality, handicrafts, transport, and local enterprises.