To strengthen India’s scuba diving and adventure tourism sector, the Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI) has collaborated with the Adventure Tour Operators Association of India (ATOAI) through a new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). The partnership is aimed at improving diver safety, maintaining global consistency in training, and encouraging responsible tourism practices across the country.

With nearly six decades of global expertise, PADI brings its extensive experience in diver education and safety standards. ATOAI, known for its efforts in promoting adventure tourism and supporting operators across India, contributes its local insights and industry network to ensure the partnership creates meaningful impact. Together, both organisations aim to position India as a premier destination for safe and sustainable diving.

Thomas Knedlik, Vice President, PADI Asia Pacific, said, “PADI is thrilled to partner with ATOAI to advance sustainable adventure tourism and diving in India. This collaboration will help showcase India as a world-class diving destination, enhance diver education and safety through PADI’s global standards, and contribute to the development and adoption of ISO standards for scuba diving in India. We look forward to inspiring more people to explore and protect India’s incredible underwater world.”

The MoU focuses on enhancing safety and training standards by aligning with international best practices. PADI and ATOAI will work together to train operators, encourage eco-friendly operations, and promote awareness about marine preservation. The collaboration also includes joint participation at national and international trade shows to highlight India’s diving potential and engage with global adventure tourism stakeholders.

Ajeet Bajaj, President of ATOAI, added, “This collaboration with PADI marks a significant milestone in India’s journey towards becoming a global leader in Responsible Adventure Tourism. By uniting ATOAI’s deep-rooted knowledge of India’s diverse adventure landscape with PADI’s internationally recognised expertise in diving safety and education, we aim to set new benchmarks in quality, safety and sustainability and showcase India as a world class diving and water sports destination. We propose to work closely with Bureau of Indian Standards & PADI to help develop and adopt robust national standards for scuba diving and other adventure activities. Together, we are committed to building a responsible and resilient adventure tourism ecosystem that not only offers world-class experiences but also protects and celebrates our natural heritage.”

The PADI–ATOAI partnership is expected to boost the visibility of India’s dive industry, open new employment avenues for local communities, and support economic growth across the adventure tourism segment. With this initiative, India takes another step forward in shaping a future where adventure and sustainability go hand in hand, encouraging people to explore the country’s underwater beauty while protecting its delicate marine ecosystems.