TBM Staff - Mumbai
The Adventure Tour Operators Association of India (ATOAI), in partnership with the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, and the Indian Institute of Travel & Tourism Management (IITTM), has successfully concluded the second edition of the Responsible Adventure Tourism Guide Course (RATG). Held in Darjeeling from 15th to 18th January 2025, the program trained 43 adventure guides from eastern India to ensure safe, sustainable, and responsible tourism practices. This initiative is part of the Ministry of Tourism’s mission to promote excellence and safety in adventure tourism across India.
Supported by key officials, including Pranav Prakash, Regional Director, Eastern Region, Ministry of Tourism, and Jotirmoy Biswas, Assistant Director, India Tourism, the course was made possible through the collaboration of multiple stakeholders. ATOAI extended its gratitude to Avijit Mishra, Executive Director, and Dawa Sherpa, Field Director, Gorkhaland Territorial Administration (GTA), for their support. Special recognition was given to Amit Periwal, Executive Committee Member and Chapter Chairman East – ATOAI, for his leadership in organising the program.
The Hanifl Center led an intensive four-day training program, supported by IITTM, offering a curriculum that included Wilderness First Aid (WFA), Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), Leave No Trace (LNT) principles, sustainable tourism practices, risk management, and leadership skills. ATOAI emphasised gender inclusivity and professional guiding techniques, equipping participants with globally recognised certifications in WFA, CPR, EAI, and LNT Awareness. These certifications prepare guides to handle emergencies in remote areas and adopt sustainable practices in their careers.
The course concluded with participants taking the Honorary Warden Pledge, committing to upholding safe and sustainable adventure tourism practices, respecting nature and host communities, following Leave No Trace principles, and promoting gender-inclusive operations. The graduation of 43 trained guides marks a significant milestone in ATOAI’s mission to shape the future of responsible adventure tourism in India, ensuring that exploration aligns with preservation.
