The global meltdown has impacted the Odisha's industry and finances. All the mega projects are facing challenges on several fronts due to the liquidity strain in the global market. This global meltdown is expected to continue for another one or two years. In this kind of situation, Odisha needs to explore newer opportunities of employment generation and development. The state has a wealth of tourism resources. Some of the most important features would be tourist monuments, pristine beaches, diverse flora and fauna, and unique tribal culture. Odisha government does try to promote tourism in it's own efforts. But, it has taken a beating due to the lack of diversified brand image. Today, Odisha is popular for it's religious tourism in Puri and getting the Konark Sun temple as a package.. The state government should focus on the potential of aqua-based products as a major driver to create a brand image. Just to cite an example, the following can be a show-case towards this direction. a) A resort at a pristine beach. b) Specialisation in sea-food related cuisine c) A by-product would be focus on Odia cusine. The plan needs following things: 1) Provide a small piece of land (less than say 2 acres or approx. 80,000 sq. ft). 2)Government provides a loan to a private entrepreneur (Local). 3) In return, the government has a stake in the project. 4) Creation of an expert team which can guide the local entreprenuer in setting up and managing the project. 5) A tie-up with a management institute for guidance This would develop local entreprenuership as opposed to looking only for big investors in terms of mega projects like Posco or Vedanta. Local entreprenuership will always create more jobs. Also, big investments take a long time to fructify. The Idea behind a beach-cum-seafood resort is that, it provides a chance to create a brand image which can be used to develop the brand image of Odisha. The marketing potential for such an enterprise is huge and cheap. Internet could be a medium. There will be no need to spend money to buy media space in expensive TV channels. Today, the travel industry is looking for new and innovative ideas. Also, most of the travel Industry depends on Internet for it's marketing and revenues. A chain of such resorts along the coastline will act as a feather in Odisha's cap. And, has the potential to generate employment as well as build Odisha's brand image in the global world.
