CM demands re-introduction of BBSR-Varanasi flight

The state government`s demands were made by Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik who met Union Tourism minister Subodh Kant Sahay in New Delhi on Monday. "Patnaik demanded reintroduction of the Bhubaneswar- Varanasi flight, which was discontinued in 1994," an official release issued by the Chief Minister`s Office here said.

Patnaik also requested Sahay to support Odisha`s proposal for extension of `Maharaja Express Classical India Train` to cover important destinations of Buddhist Circuit of Odisha. Similarly, `Mohapari Nirvan Special Train` which covers Bihar, UP and Delhi, should also include Odisha as a destination, he said.

The CM also emphasised on the need to implement `Light and Sound Show` at Udayagiri on priority basis, for which ITDC has submitted a revised proposal to the Union Ministry of Tourism. He also said that similar multimedia laser shows should also be sanctioned for Dhauli and Konark Temple.

Patnaik also demanded upgrading of Food Craft Institute at Bolangir to the level of state institute of hotel management on priority basis, so that degree courses can be start from this year itself.