Bhubaneswar, Oct 21 (IANS): The Odisha government Tuesday inked a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the the India Tourism Development Corporation for Sound and Light shows at three heritage sites in the state.

The shows will be introduced at Khandagiri-Udaygiri caves, Dhauli and the 13th century Sun Temple at Konark. The central government has sanctioned Rs.5 crore each for the three sites while a total of Rs.18.77 crore will be spent for the projects.

"All these three heritage sites of our state represent confluence of all faiths - Jainism, Buddhism and Hinduism. I complement the tourism department for making this project happen which has the potential to attract more tourists," said Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, who was present during the signing of the MoU.

The project is expected to be completed before the Nabakalebar of trinity in Puri scheduled to be held in July 2015.

The chief minister said the government is committed to make Odisha as one of the preferred tourist destinations and urged all the stakeholders to cooperate in the endeavours to reach the goal.

The sites being visited by domestic and international tourists, have immense historical significance. The projects will showcase the history and culture of Odisha.