Odisha’s Tourism Policy 2026: Simplified Hotel Expansion and HAI Backing

The Odisha Tourism (Amendment) Policy 2026 introduces measures to make hotel investment easier and greener, with officials and the Hotel Association of India (HAI) projecting nearly 15,000 new rooms by 2036.

What the policy changes at a glance

The revised framework focuses on reducing regulatory friction for hoteliers and attracting private capital. Key adjustments include a lowered minimum room requirement for 3-star and above properties, more flexible expansion rules, and incentives targeted at heritage, eco-friendly, and experiential tourism. The Policy also formalises stakeholder engagement through a State Tourism Advisory Council.

Core objectives

• Increase accommodation capacity to meet rising visitor demand.
• Encourage sustainable development through incentives for electric mobility and eco-lodges.
• Boost employment and local community participation, including tribal inclusion.
• Simplify investment to attract fresh capital and stimulate infrastructure upgrades.

What HAI highlighted

The Hotel Association of India (HAI) described the amendments as a step toward a more investor-friendly climate. HAI praised the policy’s alignment with recommendations from its State Chapter and commended the explicit focus on linking tourism growth with job creation and community benefits. HAI Secretary-General M.P. Bezbaruah and State Chapter chair Dr. J.K. Mohanty were noted for their role in follow-up discussions with the government and industry stakeholders.

Expected outcomes

Benefits for travelers and local businesses

More rooms and diversified tourism offerings mean improved choice for travellers seeking heritage stays, eco-resorts, or MICE-ready hotels. Local suppliers, artisans, and transport providers stand to gain from increased footfall and new itineraries — and that has direct implications for taxi and transfer demand across city and rural destinations.

How transfer services may be affected

Rising hotel capacity and an emphasis on experiential tourism will likely increase demand for point-to-point and customised transfer services. Airports, railway stations, and remote heritage sites could see more frequent pick-ups, longer routes, and a need for a variety of vehicle types — from private sedans and multi-seaters to larger coaches for group tours and MICE delegations.

Practical implications for operators and visitors

• Drivers and taxi companies will need clear licensing and training to serve heritage and eco-sensitive locations.
• Dynamic pricing and transparent fares will be essential as demand peaks during festivals and events.
• Operators should prepare a mix of vehicles — private cars, multi-seaters, and limousines — to match diverse traveller needs.

By linking tourism growth with tribal inclusion and community development, the policy aims for inclusive benefits rather than purely commercial expansion. The establishment of targeted zones and incentives for sustainable technologies, such as electric mobility, also signals long-term thinking that could reduce operating costs for transfer providers while meeting traveller expectations for responsible travel.

The highlights of this policy — easier hotel expansion, sustainability incentives, community focus, and the projected addition of roughly 15,000 rooms by 2036 — are compelling, but even the best reviews and most honest feedback can’t truly compare to personal experience. On GetTransfer, you can hire a car with driver from verified providers at reasonable prices. This empowers you to make the most informed decision without unnecessary expenses or disappointments. For your next trip, consider the convenience and reliability of GetTransfer. Book your Ride GetTransfer.com

In summary, Odisha’s amended tourism policy strengthens the state’s appeal as a future-ready destination by making hotel development more accessible, encouraging fenntartható turizmus, and institutionalising stakeholder input. The ripple effects will touch the taxi and transfer market — affecting fares, vehicle mix, booking patterns, and service locations — and giving travellers better options to get from airport to hotel, city centre to heritage site, or between destinations. With clear pricing, vehicle details, and driver information available in advance, platforms like GetTransfer.com make it easier to book the exact car, seat, and service you need at the right fare and time, so you know how much to expect and where to find trusted providers when you book your next ride.