The Orissa Government is determined to promote tourism in the tribal-dominated district of Malkangiri, said Culture and Tourism Minister Prafulla Samal.

Addressing a gathering after inaugurating Malyabanta Mahotsav-2011 on Tuesday, Samal declared a package of Rs. 1 crore for the tourism and infrastructure development of Satiguda dam and Manikeswari Shiva Temple.

The inaugural day of the three-day Malyabanta Mahostav-2011 saw troupes from Assam, Punjab, Rajasthan, Andhra Pradesh and Puri, Mayurbhanj, Titilagarh and Bhubaneswar perform. Gotipua, Chhau, Odissi and Dhap presented by the artistes on the day left the audience spellbound.

Also speaking on the occasion District Collector Balwant Singh said the festival was aimed at providing an opportunity to the tribal folk to exhibit their latent talents on a common platform.

More than 50,000 people enjoyed the programme despite the cold weather. Malkangiri MLA Mukund Sodi, SP Anirudha Singh, ZP president Gangadhar Buruda, DIPRO PK Naik and NAC chairman Dhanurjaya Madkami were present.

Express News