The Odisha government is considering a new mechanism for leasing land to short-gestation tourism and hospitality projects, including tent cities and glamping facilities. Tourism commissioner-cum-secretary Balwant Singh has reached out to the Industrial Infrastructure Development Corporation (Idco) to establish a framework for leasing government land for these projects for shorter durations, moving away from the traditional 99-year lease model typically used for hospitality ventures.

Singh noted that while long-term leases are appropriate for conventional hotels and resorts, emerging tourism formats like tent cities and glamping have different operational characteristics and generally have a project life cycle of up to 30 years. The tourism department has requested Idco to investigate and implement a suitable mechanism to lease land for these projects for periods of up to 30 years or for durations deemed appropriate on a case-by-case basis. This will be based on the tourism department’s recommendations following approval from the competent single window authority under the Odisha Tourism Policy.

Singh emphasized that this initiative aims to promote innovative and eco-friendly tourism products while ensuring optimal use of land resources. The department has also highlighted the importance of considering the project’s nature, investment profile, and sustainability aspects before land allocation. Currently, the tourism department hosts glamping events at various destinations, including Konark, Koraput, Bhitarkanika, and Daringbadi. The proposed framework is anticipated to stimulate investment in flexible and experience-based tourism infrastructure, such as eco-retreats, across the state.

Source: Times of India