The Madhya Pradesh Eco-Tourism Development Board (MPEDB) signs a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Adventure Tour Operators Association of India (ATOAI) to promote safe, sustainable and community-focused adventure tourism across Madhya Pradesh on September 3, 2025.
. The MoU was signed at Vallabh Bhavan, Bhopal, in the esteemed presence of Mr. Ashok Barnwal, Additional Chief Secretary (Forest), Government of Madhya Pradesh.
The MoU was executed by Dr. (Smt.) Sameeta Rajora, PCCF, MP Forest Department & CEO, MPEDB,
and Mr. Nirat Bhatt, Hon. Treasurer, ATOAI. Mr. Yog Chinmoy Dutt, Executive Committee Member and Co-Chair (Western & Central Region), ATOAI, was also present.
Under this partnership, MPEDB and ATOAI will work jointly to:
• Identify priority projects and budgets for adventure tourism development
• Provide technical expertise and operational best practices
• Ensure adherence to national and international safety standards
• Organize training and capacity-building programs for local communities
• Promote low-impact, carbon-neutral tourism models
• Mobilize CSR/CER investments to strengthen destination infrastructure and livelihoods
On the same day, a new eco-tourism site at Magarpath (near Kolar Dam) near Ratapani National Park was inspected by Mr. Barnwal, reinforcing Madhya Pradesh’s commitment to responsible, community-led tourism infrastructure.
Established in 1994, ATOAI is India’s national body for adventure tour operators with 700+ members.
The association works with government and industry on policy, standards, safety, sustainability, and market development to position India as a global leader in adventure tourism.
