MPTB and ATOAI chart a new era for adventure tourism

In a significant step towards establishing Madhya Pradesh as a leading adventure tourism hub, the MP Tourism Board (MPTB), in collaboration with the Adventure Tour Operators Association of India (ATOAI), organised the ‘Adventure Tourism Seminar 2026’ in Bhopal, bringing together over 100 stakeholders to outline a future-ready roadmap. Addressing the seminar, Dr. Ilayaraja T, IAS, highlighted that the collaboration aims to develop world-class adventure hubs. He said, “This partnership with ATOAI is a key pillar of the State’s development strategy. Our aim is to attract international tourists to experience the unique confluence of nature and culture in the state, thereby building a future-ready adventure tourism ecosystem.”

 

Dr. Abhay Arvind Bedekar, Additional MD, MPTB, emphasised the vision of positioning the state as the “Heart of Adventure Tourism,” with sustainability at its core. Key discussions focused on strengthening administrative frameworks, integrating advanced technologies like AI, and developing infrastructure across river valleys, forests, and mountainous terrains. Experts stressed that safety and innovation will be crucial in shaping the sector’s growth.

 

 

Prominent attendees included Ajeet Bajaj, President, ATOAI, Milind Bhide, ATOAI Chapter Chairman, and L. Krishnamoorthy, CEO, MP Ecotourism Development Board & APCCF (Wildlife), reflecting strong coordination between government bodies and industry leaders. Sessions on responsible tourism, business scaling, and technology adoption further enriched the dialogue. The initiative signals a decisive push by Madhya Pradesh to build a globally competitive adventure tourism ecosystem, balancing growth with conservation and community participation.