The curtain raiser programme of the ATOAI Convention 2025 was held today in Kashmir, setting the stage for the upcoming national convention of the Adventure Tour Operators Association of India (ATOAI), scheduled to be held from 17 to 20 December 2025 in the Union Territory.
The event witnessed the presence of senior government officials, tourism stakeholders and members of ATOAI, highlighting the growing focus on positioning Jammu & Kashmir as a leading destination for adventure and experiential tourism in India.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister of Jammu & Kashmir said that tourism plays a crucial role in the region’s economic growth and employment generation. He emphasized that Jammu & Kashmir’s natural landscape offers unmatched opportunities for adventure tourism, including skiing, mountaineering, trekking, rafting and high-altitude experiences.
The Chief Minister stated that the government is working on a long-term vision to strengthen tourism infrastructure, enhance connectivity and develop world-class facilities. He added that significant investments are being planned in tourism and allied infrastructure to promote all-season tourism, attract private participation and create sustainable livelihoods for local communities.
He expressed confidence that hosting the ATOAI Convention would further reinforce confidence among national and international tourism stakeholders and showcase Jammu & Kashmir’s readiness to host large-scale industry events.
Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Ajit Bajaj, President, Adventure Tour Operators Association of India (ATOAI), said that Jammu & Kashmir has historically been one of India’s most iconic adventure tourism destinations. He noted that the decision to host the ATOAI Convention 2025 in the region reflects the industry’s renewed confidence in Kashmir’s tourism ecosystem.
Mr. Bajaj said that the convention will focus on future planning for adventure tourism, with discussions around safety standards, capacity building, responsible tourism practices and the development of globally competitive adventure products. He emphasized that ATOAI is committed to working closely with the government and local stakeholders to ensure that adventure tourism growth directly benefits local communities.
He further added that the convention will serve as a national platform for dialogue between policymakers, tour operators and destination managers, helping shape a clear roadmap for the sustainable growth of adventure tourism in Jammu & Kashmir.
The curtain raiser programme underlined the shared commitment of the government and the industry to position Jammu & Kashmir as a premier adventure tourism hub and ensure the successful hosting of the ATOAI Convention 2025 later this month.
