Scapia, one of India’s fastest-growing travel-fintech brands, has rolled out the first chapter of its flagship Leap Year programme in partnership with the Madhya Pradesh Ecotourism Board and the Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board (MPTB). The initiative begins with a 15-day conservation-focused immersion in the Satpura Tiger Reserve—setting the tone for a year-long, multi-continent journey designed to reshape how young Indians experience the world.
Announcing the launch, Anil Goteti, Founder & CEO of Scapia, said the collaboration reflects a shared commitment to meaningful, responsible travel. “Partnering with the Madhya Pradesh Ecotourism Board to kick off Leap Year in Satpura marks an incredible beginning. This is travel with purpose—encouraging young Indians to explore with curiosity, empathy, and intent,” he said.
For the first chapter, two selected travellers—Annapurna Maddi and Tanuka Agarwal—will spend two weeks inside the Satpura Tiger Reserve, one of India’s richest biodiversity zones. Their schedule includes joining field patrols using the MSTrIPES monitoring system, participating in wildlife census activities, studying conservation programmes, understanding voluntary village relocation efforts, and observing human–wildlife conflict mitigation measures. The duo will also work closely with local communities across Sohagpur, Pipariya, and Pachmarhi.
Highlighting the significance of this collaboration, Mr. L. Krishnamoorthy, Additional PCCF & CEO, Madhya Pradesh Ecotourism Board, noted that the state, home to the highest number of tiger reserves in India, welcomes initiatives that inspire responsible engagement with nature. “We are delighted to partner with Scapia and look forward to watching these travellers learn, contribute, and evolve through this unique experience,” he said.
Launched earlier this year, Leap Year is Scapia’s passion-centred initiative aimed at nurturing global, conscious travellers. Over the next 12 months, the programme will span four continents, immersing participants in diverse cultures, ecological habitats, and community-driven projects. The first edition received an overwhelming response, with thousands of applications from across India—nearly 70% from under-30 travellers, showing a rising appetite for travel that educates and transforms.
The finalists were selected by a multidisciplinary jury comprising chef Sarah Todd, storyteller Gaurav Sharma, and solo traveller Aakanksha Monga.
As Scapia’s Leap Year progresses, upcoming chapters will take explorers across continents—celebrating journeys rooted in discovery, cultural understanding, and purpose-driven travel.
