On August 1st, 2024, an ATOAI delegation led by President Ajeet Bajaj and Executive Committee member Paras Loomba had an inspiring meeting with Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, the Honble Minister of Tourism, Government of India. The Minister, who recently experienced the thrill of skydiving, expressed a strong commitment to transforming India into a leading Adventure Tourism destination. He encouraged ATOAI to collaborate closely with the Ministry of Tourism and all stakeholders to unlock the vast potential of adventure tourism in India.
During the meeting, the Honble Minister was briefed on the shared vision of MoT and ATOAI to position India among the top ten adventure tourism destinations globally. The ATOAI team also discussed various initiatives with the Minister, including the National Board for Adventure Tourism, a model law for regulation, Mega Trails, adventure rescue centers in key adventure hubs, satellite phones for tour operators, insurance, improved air connectivity to adventure hubs, opening of new areas for adventure tourism, including border regions and hosting ATTA Adventure Next in India in 2025..
The Honble Minister assured the delegation of the Ministrys unwavering support to boost adventure tourism in India. He emphasized the critical role of the Adventure Model Law in ensuring responsible and regulated adventure activities. ATOAI will be providing the Minister with detailed notes on the Mega Trails and adventure tourism in border areas as prime future adventure products of India.
This meeting represents a significant step towards a collaborative effort to elevate India's adventure tourism landscape, offering limitless possibilities for both domestic and international tourists.
In a dynamic move to revitalize India’s tourism sector, the newly appointed Tourism & Culture Minister, Shri. Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Hon'ble Tourism Minister recently convened a significant meeting with the heads of travel trade associations to address the industry's current challenges and explore emerging opportunities. ATOAI was represented by Mr. Ronny Singh Gulati, Honorary Secretary, and Mr. Paras Loomba, an Executive Committee Member. In the meeting, representatives from other key stakeholder associations were also present.
Key Points Discussed:
1. Development of Mega Adventure Trails: ATOAI is collaborating with the Ministry of Tourism to develop Mega Adventure Trails, with two primary trails taking precedence:
a. Ganga Nature & Heritage Trail
b. Western Himalaya Mega Trail
Mr. Gulati emphasized the urgency of expediting these projects, highlighting their potential to spur local development and generate significant employment opportunities.
2. Adventure Tourism Model Law: To ensure the sustainable and regulated growth of adventure tourism in India, there is a proposal for a comprehensive Adventure Tourism Regulation Act.This model law aims to standardize practices and ensure safety across various segments of adventure tourism. The Act is designed for adoption by State Governments and Union Territory Administrations, providing a unified regulatory framework that supports the industry's expansion while safeguarding participants and the environment.
3. Satellite Phone Accessibility: The introduction of satellite-based devices and services is seen as a pivotal step in promoting safe responsible adventure tourism in India. Recognized tour operators could be granted access to satellite phones by the Ministry of Tourism, enhancing safety measures and positioning India as a responsible adventure tourism destination on the global stage.
