ATOAI’s 15th Annual Adventure Tourism Convention 2023 Opens At Statue Of Unity, Ekta Nagar
In anticipation of the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit scheduled for January 2024, the Adventure Tour Operators Association of India (ATOAI) commenced the 15th Annual Adventure Tourism Convention 2023 on Monday at the Statue of Unity, Ekta Nagar. Supported by the Tourism Corporation of Gujarat, the convention serves as a prelude to one of the most significant global gatherings focused on adventure tourism.
The inaugural day featured a welcome address by ATOAI President Padmashri Ajeet Bajaj, who highlighted the association's collaboration with the Bureau of Tourism to refine adventure tourism guidelines nationwide. Distinguished guests, including central and state government representatives, industry leaders, and experts, participated in various sessions throughout the day.
In the lead-up to the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit, several MoUs, totaling over Rs. 770 crore, were signed to enhance Gujarat's tourism sector. The agreements cover areas such as knowledge-sharing on adventure tourism, film shooting, and infrastructure development.
Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh, Pema Khandu, emphasised the state's rich potential in adventure tourism. He acknowledged the vision of Hon'ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, particularly the 'Dekho Apna Desh' initiative, for propelling tourism in India. The focus is on developing vibrant villages to foster sustainable tourism models.
Minister of Tourism Gujarat, Mulubhai Bera, outlined Gujarat's transformation into a global tourism hub. He credited initiatives launched during Prime Minister Modi's tenure, resulting in accolades like the 'Best Tourism Village' Award from UNWTO for Dhordo and UNESCO declaring Garba as 'Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.' The minister emphasised the crucial role of adventure tourism in the state's economy and employment.
Fitness enthusiast and actor Milind Soman delivered a special address, highlighting the significance of adventure tourism in India.
A panel discussion, moderated by Deputy Chief of the Army Staff, Lt. Rakesh Kapoor, explored themes such as mega trails, border tourism, and vibrant villages. The discussion focused on promoting sustainable and eco-friendly adventure tourism practices.
Managing Director of Gujarat Tourism, Dr. Sourabh Pardhi, presented insights into Gujarat's tourism landscape. Presentations on Punjab Tourism by Principal Secretary Rakhee Gupta Bhandari and Adventure Tourism in Jammu & Kashmir by Amarjeet Singh, Special Secretary, were also featured.
The 15th Annual Adventure Tourism Convention sets the stage for collaborative efforts to further elevate India's adventure tourism sector and strengthen Gujarat's position as a leading destination. The upcoming Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit is anticipated to witness the fruition of these efforts, propelling the state's tourism industry to new heights.
