December 21, 2023: The National Conference on Adventure Tourism, hosted by the Ministry of Tourism, unfolded a transformative narrative from December 18th to 19th, 2023, in Ekta Nagar, Gujarat. Under the resounding theme “Viksit Bharat@2047: Making India a Global Adventure Tourism Hub,” the event aimed to position India on the world map as a premier adventure tourism destination.
India’s geographical diversity is a treasure trove, boasting 70% of the Himalayas, a 7,000-kilometer coastline, deserts, dense forests, and UNESCO Natural Heritage sites. Despite these advantages, India’s global standing in adventure tourism hasn’t reached its zenith.
To address this, the Ministry of Tourism devised a National Strategy for Adventure Tourism. The Indian Institute of Travel and Tourism Management became the Central Nodal Agency, providing technical support. The formation of a National Board for Adventure Tourism added a strategic layer to guide sector development.
Strategic pillars formed the backbone of sustainable tourism growth, encompassing state assessments, capacity building, marketing, safety management, rescue infrastructure, destination development, and governance enhancement.
The focus is clear: Adventure. India’s goal is ambitious – a USD 3 trillion tourism economy by 2047, with adventure tourism contributing USD 800 billion. The aim is to welcome 20 million foreign tourists, cater to 80 million domestic adventure travelers, and generate USD 90 billion in foreign exchange.
During the conference, Smt. Radha Katyal Narang, Director Niche Tourism, Ministry of Tourism, commended Gujarat’s success in organizing ATOAI’s 15th Annual Convention & Pre-Vibrant Gujarat Event. She emphasized the Ministry’s dedication to promoting sustainable adventure tourism.
Key presentations delved into the National Strategy for Adventure Tourism, urging collaboration among stakeholders. International perspectives by Mike Druce and industry insights from Ajeet Bajaj added depth to the discussions.
The Ministry launched the “Adventure Tourism India Website” and announced the “Best Adventure Tourism Destination Competition 2024.”
State presentations unveiled their adventure tourism assets, development plans, skill-building initiatives, safety measures, and alignment with national strategies. States like Uttarakhand, Arunachal Pradesh, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Ladakh, Kerala, Sikkim, and Punjab shared their insights and plans.
Day two spotlighted sessions on destination planning, development, and management, showcasing best practices. The conference also shed light on Ministry of Tourism initiatives, including the Incredible India Portal, Meet in India, Wed in India campaigns, Travel for LiFE Campaign, and endeavors promoting tourism villages and rural homestays.
The stage is set for India’s thrilling ascent as a global adventure tourism hub by 2047 – an exhilarating journey filled with promise, potential, and a passion for adventure.