Odisha Tourism launches a 6-month induction program for new OTS officers. Learn how this training enhances tourism policy, management, and digital strategy
OdishaPlus Bureau
The state government on Monday inaugurated a six-month Induction Training Program for the newly recruited Odisha Tourism Service (OTS) Cadre Officers in Bhubaneswar.
The state Tourism department, in collaboration with the Indian Institute of Tourism and Travel Management (IITTM), Bhubaneswar, organised the program. This capacity-building initiative aims to equip officers with the knowledge, skills, and professional competencies required to effectively contribute to the growth and promotion of Odisha’s tourism sector.
Saroja Kumar Swain, Additional Secretary to the Tourism Department, inaugurated the program at 11:00 AM on Monday (June 1) and emphasised the importance of skilled human resources in advancing the state’s tourism sector.
The inaugural session was graced by Babulal Patra, Financial Advisor-cum-Additional Secretary to the State government, and Binod Kumar Jena, Joint Secretary to the Tourism Department, along with other senior officials of the Department.
The inaugural session featured a welcome address and program overview by Prof Adyasha Das, Chairperson (Training), IITTM. Speaking on the occasion, Prof (Dr) Md. Sabir Hussain, Nodal Officer and Centre Head, IITTM Bhubaneswar, underscored the significance of the induction training in preparing officers for their roles in the tourism sector. The session concluded with a vote of thanks by Sareeta Pradhan, Co-Coordinator of the programme.
The induction training programme has been structured over a six-month period, with the first phase comprising three months of training scheduled this year. The remaining three months will be conducted next year, ensuring a comprehensive and phased learning experience for the newly recruited officers.
The training programme aims to familiarise officers with tourism policies, government schemes, regulatory frameworks, and sustainable tourism practices, enabling them to effectively translate policy objectives into meaningful action on the ground. Through interactive classroom sessions, field visits, case studies, and expert interactions, participants will gain practical insights into destination management, tourism promotion, and stakeholder engagement.
Special emphasis is being placed on strengthening managerial and administrative capabilities, fostering leadership qualities, and enhancing confidence in decision-making and public engagement. The programme also introduces officers to contemporary digital tools, data-driven tourism planning, social media marketing, e-governance applications, and emerging global tourism trends. These components are intended to prepare officers to effectively navigate the rapidly evolving tourism landscape and contribute to the sustainable development and promotion of tourism in Odisha.
The programme reflects the commitment of the Tourism Department towards developing a competent and professional workforce capable of driving Odisha’s tourism sector to greater heights.