( Hot air balloon safari at Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve)
- Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board and ATOAI chart a new era for adventure tourism • ‘ATOAI Adventure Tourism Seminar 2026’ organised in Bhopal
- Technology and safety to drive Madhya Pradesh as an emerging adventure hub
TTT NEWS NETWORK
BHOPAL | 25 MARCH 2026
In a significant step towards establishing Madhya Pradesh as a leading adventure tourism hub, the Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board, in collaboration with the Adventure Tour Operators Association of India (ATOAI), successfully organised the ‘Adventure Tourism Seminar 2026’.
Held under the theme “Adventure Strategy for a New Era”, the seminar brought together over 100 key stakeholders who engaged in deliberations to chart a progressive and future-ready adventure tourism roadmap for the State.
The seminar was led by Dr. Ilayaraja T, IAS, Secretary, Tourism, Government of Madhya Pradesh and Managing Director, Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board. He said, “This partnership with ATOAI is a key pillar of the State’s development strategy. Together, we are working towards developing new adventure products and creating hubs that meet global safety standards. Our aim is to attract international tourists to experience the unique confluence of nature and culture in Madhya Pradesh, thereby building a future-ready adventure tourism ecosystem.”
The discussions at the seminar were centred on strengthening coordination between policy and industry. Dr. Abhay Arvind Bedekar, Additional Managing Director, Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board, emphasised that the “Heart of Incredible India” must also emerge as the “Heart of Adventure Tourism,” anchored in safety and sustainability. With a strong focus on proposals and strategic partnerships, Madhya Pradesh is laying the foundation to become a world-class destination for nature and adventure enthusiasts.
Key focus areas of the 2026 roadmap:
- Administrative Framework: Aligning local operations with international safety standards
- Technology Integration: Leveraging AI and advanced technologies for improved destination management
- Infrastructure Development: Harnessing the State’s diverse river valleys, forests and mountains to deliver globally competitive experiences
The event was attended by Dr. Santosh Srivastava, Joint Director, Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board, along with distinguished dignitaries including Shri Ajeet Bajaj (President, ATOAI), Shri Milind Bhide (ATOAI Chapter Chairman), and Shri L. Krishnamoorthy (CEO, MP Ecotourism Development Board). Their presence reaffirmed integrated efforts between the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India and State authorities to boost investment in the adventure tourism sector.
The programme featured a special film screening by the Ministry of Tourism, followed by a high-level panel discussion on “Adventure Strategy for a New Era”, moderated by Shri Milind Bhide, with active participation from stakeholders across MPTB, MPEDB, ATOAI and the hospitality sector. L. Krishnamoorthy, CEO, MP Ecotourism Development Board & APCCF (Wildlife), speaking on “Responsible Adventure Tourism in Protected Landscapes: Policy, Partnerships and Conservation Outcomes,” said, “Madhya Pradesh’s approach to adventure tourism is firmly anchored in conservation, responsible practices and community participation. As we expand offerings to trekking, kayaking and camping, our priority is to ensure that adventure tourism growth supports conservation outcomes, strengthens local livelihoods, and delivers safe, sustainable experiences.”
Mr Ajeet Bajaj, President, ATOAI, in his presidential address, said, “India stands at a defining moment in adventure tourism, where the focus must shift towards safety, sustainability and global standards. Our partnership with Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board is a strong example of how government and industry can work together to build a cohesive ecosystem. With its diverse landscapes and progressive approach, Madhya Pradesh is well-positioned to emerge as a leading adventure tourism hub in the country.”
Subsequent sessions included a business masterclass by Shri Daksh Sharma, who highlighted the effective use of artificial intelligence and social media for predictable lead generation, and an expert session by Shri Nirat Bhatt, Honorary Treasurer, ATOAI, focusing on scaling adventure businesses while maintaining safety standards. The programme concluded with an interactive session.
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