ATOAI is renowned for leading by example in the adventure tourism industry: Mrs. Arshdeep Anand

The Adventure Tour Operators Association of India (ATOAI) is the national representative group for Indian adventure tour operators. It was created in 1994 by a select few travel trade adventurers who viewed ATOAI as a strong support group that would result in both group and individual profits by developing adventure as one of India’s primary tourism attractions. ATOAI’s 16th annual Adventure Convention will be held in Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh, from December 3rd to 8th, 2024. The six-day convention will unite adventure tourism professionals nationwide to explore and highlight Arunachal Pradesh’s immense potential as India’s next top adventure destination.

Mrs. Arshdeep Anand, Vice President of ATOAI, speaks to Voyager’s World in an exclusive interview.

Why was Arunachal Pradesh selected to host the 16th ATOAI Adventure Convention?

ATOAI is renowned for leading by example in the adventure tourism industry. Last year, the ATOAI convention held at the Statue of Unity in Gujarat set a significant milestone by being the first net-zero convention, underscoring the association’s commitment to sustainability. The event saw strong participation from tour operators from across the country, reflecting the growing interest and collaboration within the sector. During the convention, the Honorable Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh, Shri Pema Khandu, expressed his vision to promote the lesser-known yet stunningly beautiful part of India, Arunachal Pradesh, which has immense potential for adventure tourism. This aligns with ATOAI’s ongoing efforts to showcase unexplored destinations and foster responsible tourism in regions with rich adventure possibilities.

With support from the Ministry of Tourism, GOI, the State of Arunachal Pradesh & Arunachal Tourism, ATOAI has the opportunity to bring tour operators to experience the state firsthand, fostering sustainable tourism that directly benefits local communities.

Positioned as a hidden gem, Arunachal Pradesh aligns perfectly with ATOAI’s vision of establishing India as a leading global destination for responsible adventure tourism. The convention will also spotlight the importance of Border Tourism, providing delegates with the unique chance to visit significant sites like Bumla Pass. In line with its commitment to sustainability, this year’s event will aim to be net-zero, highlighting ATOAI’s dedication to responsible tourism and reducing its environmental impact.

What sessions or seminars have the convention planned?

This convention will offer a diverse range of sessions and seminars designed to explore key themes in adventure tourism. Topics include the unique role of border tourism and its potential for adventure, rethinking the future of India’s adventure tourism industry, and understanding the latest global trends in adventure travel. Discussions will also highlight how the adventure industry supports sustainable tourism benefitting the communities and the importance of skill development for for adventure travel industry. Storytelling as a tool for excellence in travel and insights into adventures across India’s frontiers will also be explored.

Breakaway sessions will address practical industry aspects such as insurance, equipment, legal frameworks, imports, and regional tourism opportunities. The event will delve into creating iconic mega trails, discuss the future of adventure tourism in Arunachal Pradesh, and explore technology-driven strategies for converting leads into adventure sales. Key issues like reducing accident rates and preventing the commoditization of outdoor experiences will also be addressed. Alongside these specially curated sessions, delegates will engage in a B2B marketplace, exhibition stalls, and networking opportunities.

What is the objective of the 16th Annual Adventure Convention?

The 16th Annual Adventure Convention by ATOAI aims to advance responsible adventure tourism across India, with a special focus on establishing Arunachal Pradesh as one of the leading destinations for responsible adventure tourism. This year’s convention is no less than an expedition & seeks to showcase the adventure potential of lesser-explored areas, promote environmental responsibility, and build strong connections between tourism operators and local communities. Through a variety of seminars, discussions, and hands-on experiences, the convention will work to set new standards for responsible adventure tourism, and sustainable travel, foster community-driven growth, and emphasise the significance of border tourism in India. ATOAI is also dedicated to making this a net-zero event, underscoring its commitment to minimising environmental impact and championing a responsible tourism model that supports travellers and local regions.

How has ATOAI progressed since its inception until now?

Since its inception, the Adventure Tour Operators Association of India (ATOAI) has evolved from the vision of just 7 founder members to a national organisation with over 700 + members as of date. From finding a place of minded adventure tour operators, it has become the nodal body for the adventure stakeholders. It has made significant strides in promoting and advancing adventure tourism in the country over three decades. The hugely successful 15 annual conventions span footprints across various states of India. These conventions have been pivotal in bringing together industry stakeholders, government bodies, and media to discuss the future of adventure tourism, showcase India’s diverse adventure offerings, and foster collaboration. The conventions have also served as a platform for knowledge exchange, allowing for innovations and advancements in the sector.

ATOAI’s work extends beyond conventions. It has introduced several key initiatives, such as regularly conducting Adventure Guide Training Programme & Wilderness and First Aid Responder Courses in India, designed to equip professionals with critical skills in safety, sustainability, and risk management, leading to capacity building in the sector. From just being a Delhi-centric association, the association is now recognised as a national body creating chapter chairs in 5 regions across the country. The chapters regularly organize events throughout the year to propagate the vision of ATOAI & disseminate the latest information & trends to the adventure tour operators.

The association saw the evolution of the Women’s Collective, which has been instrumental in promoting gender sensitisation. ATOAI Women’s Collective focuses on strengthening women in the adventure tourism sector and creating safer, more inclusive spaces within the industry.

Furthermore, ATOAI has played a significant role in advocating for safety and quality standards, launching essential guidelines for adventure tourism in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism. These efforts ensure that the adventure tourism sector in India remains safe, sustainable, and beneficial for local communities and travellers alike. As ATOAI continues to expand its reach and influence, it remains committed to shaping the future of adventure tourism in India through advocacy, training, and creating opportunities for collaboration and growth. Since last year, ATOAI has been showcasing the country how to do net zero events & with a low carbon footprint leading to responsible & sustainable adventure tourism.

What are ATOAI’s prospects in 2025?

By expanding international partnerships, with associations, like Adventure Travel Trade Association, ATOAI is poised to elevate India’s global standing as a premier adventure tourism destination. In India, the first-ever Adventure Next of ATTA had been hosted in Madhya Pradesh and now the talks are on to bring it back to India again.

With continued success in hosting such events, conventions, and other regional events, ATOAI’s future is set to shape the trajectory of responsible and sustainable adventure tourism in India.