Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government has introduced a dedicated support framework to promote authentic Odia cuisine restaurants within the state and across major Indian cities, aiming to strengthen the region’s culinary identity and expand its national footprint.
Under the revised Odisha Tourism Policy–2026, restaurants serving traditional Odia food will be eligible for capital expenditure (CAPEX) support of up to 30 per cent, with subsidies capped at ₹5 crore per unit. The incentive is designed to encourage private investment in culinary ventures that showcase Odisha’s indigenous flavours, cooking techniques, and food traditions.
In addition to capital support, eligible establishments can avail operational expenditure (OPEX) assistance of up to ₹2 lakh per month to help manage initial operating costs as they establish and scale their businesses.
The scheme extends beyond Odisha’s major tourist destinations to key metropolitan markets, including Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, Chennai, and Kolkata. It also covers prominent tourist cities such as Agra, Varanasi, Goa, Kochi, and Jaipur, providing restaurateurs with access to wider and more diverse consumer bases for Odia cuisine.
Tourism department officials said the initiative is expected to enhance Odisha’s visibility on the national food tourism map, while creating new opportunities for entrepreneurs, chefs, and local supply chains. By incentivising authentic culinary experiences, the government aims to position Odia cuisine alongside other well-established regional food traditions in India.
The move forms part of a broader set of reforms under the Odisha Tourism Policy–2026, focused on boosting investment, diversifying tourism offerings, and strengthening the state’s hospitality ecosystem. Officials added that the emphasis on food tourism aligns with growing domestic demand for regional and experiential dining, which can contribute significantly to tourism-led economic growth.
-OdishaAge
