Bhubaneswar, Jan 20 (FN Bureau) Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Friday said the state Government is making concerted efforts to develop Odisha as a global hotspot of tourists, provide livelihoods and employment opportunities, and make the State attractive for investors. Inaugurating the international craft summit, the first of its kind summit in the state on virtual mode, the Chief Minister said the state is developing mechanisms for holistic development of tourism, handloom and handicrafts sector. The state, Patnaik said, has put in place various policies such as State Tourism Policy, Handicraft Policy, Apparel and Technical Textiles Policy, opening art galleries at different places, organising heritage walks and taking many other initiatives to promote tourism and culture.
Speaking on the cultural splendour of the state, Patnaik said, “Odisha is an illustrious land of immaculate art and crafts. Our civilizational journey is a journey of our artistic culture. The artistic skills of our craftsmen are reflected in numerous ways. You can find it in our temples, our sculptures, Buddhist shrines, hand-woven clothes, patta paintings, wood works, metal works…… everywhere. Every village, and every lane of Odisha exhibits some form of art or craft. The soul of Odisha lives in our art, craft, music and culture.” Inaugurating the craft summit, the Chief Minister said “Jajpur was the Ancient Capital of Odisha. With its existing assets of religious tourism, urban tourism and Buddhist tourism, it has the potential to be a major tourist hub, the cultural heritage of Jajpur is reflected in its vibrant art forms.”
This is the first-of-its-kind craft summit featuring a confluence of pioneering craftspeople, culture, and art enthusiasts. International delegates from 15 countries have arrived in Jajpur to engage with local artisans and other stakeholders, he said. Four UN agencies and five UNESCO Creative Cities have partnered with the District to realize this ambitious and forward-looking event on behalf of the State Government. Science & Technology Minister Ashok Panda, Rural Development Minister Priti Ranjan Ghadai, Handloom, Textile & Handicrafts Minister Rita Sahu participated. They highlighted the cultural heritage of Odisha and its significance in modern age. Junhi Han, Chief of UNESCO Culture Sector for South Asian countries appreciated the efforts for the promotion of local art, artists and artisans. Renowned Bollywood actor Dia Mirza also attended.