In a significant move aimed at bolstering tourism and nurturing local entrepreneurship, OYO Rooms has unveiled its inaugural Odisha Homestay in the illustrious city of Puri. Spearheaded by Tusharkanti Behera, Minister of Sports & Youth Services, Govt of Odisha, the inauguration ceremony heralded the commencement of a collaborative endeavor between OYO and the Odisha Skill Development Authority (OSDA) to establish 50 such homestays across diverse destinations within Odisha.

"Puri stands as a beacon for tourism, and under the visionary leadership of Hon’ble CM Naveen Patnaik, efforts to promote tourism, art, culture, and heritage are laudable. OYO's initiative seamlessly aligns with this vision, providing a platform for skilled Odisha youth to contribute to sustainable tourism," remarked Minister Behera.

Alka Misra, Chairperson of OSDA, underscored the initiative's objective of empowering Odisha's youth in the hospitality sector. "Our mission is to equip Odisha's youth with the necessary skills, bolstering their confidence and fostering avenues for advancement. This initiative not only empowers local communities but also fuels economic growth through tourism," she affirmed.

A homestay experience offers travelers a distinct and personalized lodging option, imbuing them with the warmth and familiarity of home during their sojourn. OYO Rooms, renowned for its innovative Homestays service, is poised to introduce over 50 such establishments across Odisha, addressing the escalating demand for authentic and budget-friendly accommodation choices.

Ritesh Agarwal, Founder of OYO Rooms, expressed his personal pride in inaugurating the inaugural homestay in Puri. "As a native of Odisha and a devout follower of Lord Jagannath, this initiative holds profound significance for me. It transcends mere business; it represents a commitment to delivering top-tier accommodation for pilgrims and tourists, while concurrently generating income opportunities for locals," he emphasized.

The inauguration ceremony witnessed the convergence of dignitaries from various organizations, including Shri Pinaki Patnaik, COO of World Skill Center, and officials from OYO Rooms. The presence of the proprietor and family members of Susila Nivas, the chosen property for the inaugural homestay, underscored the promising alliance between OYO and the local community, signaling a promising trajectory for tourism and economic development in Odisha.