The Odisha government has intensified efforts to promote the state's rich culinary heritage through a series of initiatives. In April 2026, renowned chef Ranveer Brar was appointed as the brand ambassador for Odia cuisine. Additionally, MasterChef India finalists Anju and Manju, along with Season 6 winner Abinas Nayak, have been chosen to promote traditional Odia food. The state's Tourism Department formalized these agreements during the recent Odia Paksha celebrations in the presence of Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi.
New Guidelines for Odia Cuisine Restaurants
In the latest move, the state government has issued guidelines for implementing a new initiative under the Odisha Tourism (Amendment) Policy, 2026, aimed at promoting Odia cuisine restaurants both within and outside Odisha. According to a PDF document on the Department of Tourism's website, eight conditions have been set for restaurants to qualify for incentives under this policy.
Eligibility Criteria for Incentives
To access incentives, restaurants must meet clear eligibility conditions. These include clear land ownership or a valid lease agreement, a minimum seating capacity of 25 guests, and a fully functioning, hygienic kitchen. Additional requirements include a minimum investment of Rs 20 lakh (excluding land and building), trained staff experienced in traditional Odia culinary practices, clean public conveniences, parking facilities compliant with building bylaws, and menu cards displaying Odia cuisine offerings in both Odia and English.
Capital Expenditure (CAPEX) Support
The policy offers both capital expenditure (CAPEX) and operational expenditure (OPEX) support. CAPEX support will reimburse up to 30% of eligible costs, subject to a maximum of Rs 5 crore per unit, disbursed in staggered installments over three years. This support covers furnishing, interiors, and kitchen equipment, with repair and renovation included for restaurants within Odisha.
Operational Expenditure (OPEX) Incentives
OPEX incentives aim to reduce operational costs. For restaurants within Odisha, reimbursements for electricity and state GST are provided during the first three years of operation, capped at Rs 2 lakh per unit per month. Restaurants outside Odisha can claim CAPEX support for furnishing, interiors, and kitchen equipment, and OPEX reimbursements for twice their monthly electricity charges for three years.
Scope and Selection of Cities
The incentives apply in government-notified tourist destinations within Odisha and selected locations outside the state. These include major metro cities such as Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, Chennai, and Kolkata, with a limit of five units per city, and prominent tourist destinations like Agra, Varanasi, Goa, Kochi, and Jaipur, with a cap of two units per location. An Odia Culinary Committee constituted by the Tourism Department will verify incentive claims and ensure compliance with policy requirements.
This initiative is part of a broader state effort to promote Odisha's cultural and culinary heritage and encourage authentic regional dining experiences both within and beyond the state's borders.
