Macroview

ATOAI to focus on newer frontiers at forth coming convention

Reema Sisodia - Mumbai

Adventure Tour Operators Association of India (ATOAI) is scheduled to conduct its annual convention titled 'Adventure Tourism - Exploring New Frontiers' to be held in New Delhi from December 21 to 22, 2005. The convention aims to focus on the myriad adventure and eco-tourism opportunities in India and the way ahead. Adventure tour associations and operators from countries such as Pakistan, Nepal, Bhutan, Myanmar, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Maldives and China/ Tibet are also scheduled to attend the convention to exchange their views on the subject.

Speaking about the organisation and its agenda, Ajeet Bajaj, president, ATOAI mentioned, "Our main aim is to focus attention on adventure and eco-tourism, add value to the product and add value to the membership. There is tremendous potential in the segment of adventure tourism in the country and our efforts are on to make it popular further. We are expecting a lot of action at the convention, with eminent speakers from across segments, leading corporates etc would address issues and topics on adventure tourism. We have received encouragement from the government level and are only hoping to spread the concept of adventure tourism further."

The convention is also scheduled to have add- on programmes such as problem solving techniques related to adventure activities, first-aid and CPR (Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation) course for its members. Safety and security lectures, field practices, rescue programmes and operations, would also be part of the convention to upgrade ones knowledge and skills about the various facets of adventure tourism. India as an adventure tourism venue is also growing in popularity on the international circuit, wherein inbound tourism especially in the area of adventure tourism is growing steadily.

Added Tejbir Singh, convention chairman, ATOAI, "ATOAI was founded with an aim to create awareness about the potential of adventure tourism in India. We take pride in informing you that today, it is a national body comprising 140 members from across the country who are promoting Adventure and Eco Tourism in India. With our forthcoming convention we are aiming to put forth our problems and requests to the government authorities and are hoping to strengthen our position further."