ATOAI Online Members Meet – From Insights to Impact!
28
Mar
2025
Online Meet
Organized By: ATOAI - Adventure Tour Operators Association of India
ATOAI’s March Members Meet Highlights India’s Growing Adventure Tourism Landscape. On March 28, 2025, the Adventure Tour Operators Association of India (ATOAI) held its monthly Online Members Meet, continuing its mission to promote growth, collaboration, and responsible practices in the adventure tourism industry. The session brought together key voices to discuss pivotal themes such as safety, sustainability, and innovation, setting the tone for strategic initiatives in the months ahead.
The session began with a warm welcome address by Sr. Vice President Vaibhav Kala, who shared important updates on ATOAI’s ongoing efforts. A major highlight was ATOAI’s active participation in the Arunachal Adventure Conclave, focusing on skill development, safety measures, and government collaboration to position Arunachal Pradesh as a leading adventure destination.
Training and capacity-building remained at the forefront with the Responsible Adventure Tourism Guide (RATG) Course, which has already trained over 400 guides in safety and sustainability. New training sessions are planned in Rishikesh, Pune, Mumbai, and Bhopal, expanding the reach and impact of the initiative.
Looking ahead to ITB India 2025, ATOAI will recommend 30 members to participate in this prestigious B2B travel trade show in Mumbai from September 2–4. Strengthening global travel access was also a topic of discussion, with ATOAI President Ajeet Bajaj participating in stakeholder consultations on e-visa policies and improved ASEAN air connectivity.
In a major industry promotion effort, ATOAI showcased the adventure potential of Northeast India at the Act East Business Show in Shillong (March 25–27). Simultaneously, work continues on a significant collaboration with Andhra Pradesh, where customized safety guidelines, training programs, and licensing frameworks for adventure tourism are being developed.
The session featured a Presidential Address by Ajeet Bajaj, who spoke about ATOAI’s vision and leadership. One of the landmark achievements shared was the long-awaited approval for adventure tour operators to rent satellite phones through the Indian Mountaineering Foundation, after 25 years of advocacy.
ATOAI is also working closely with governments and institutions to drive meaningful partnerships – from the Dharoi Dam Festival in Gujarat to adventure policy development in Andhra Pradesh, and even joint initiatives with the Indian Army to promote border tourism.
Upcoming Events were announced, including:
Risk Mitigation Webinar – April 4
FAITH Conclave 2025 – June 4–5, Taj Palace, New Delhi
A segment on Regional Insights highlighted participation from the Northern Chapter and flagged the need for deeper member engagement. Despite having 316 members, only 61 are actively involved and 17 responsive, signaling the importance of stronger regional representation and localized meetups.
The association also focused on promoting new adventure destinations like Tar Village, Chushul, Hanle, and Phugtal Gonpa, alongside winter wildlife tourism in Ladakh and sustainable certifications to ensure long-term viability. The session concluded with a Meet & Greet to welcome new members and closing remarks by Hon. Secretary Ronny Gulati.
Special emphasis was laid on the work of the ATOAI Standardization Cell, which continues to strengthen the association’s influence through training, assessment, and licensing frameworks.
Above all, the session reaffirmed ATOAI’s commitment to responsible, safe, and sustainable adventure tourism, ensuring that India’s growing adventure sector remains guided by international standards and a passion for nature-based experiences.
