PADI and ATOAI Partner to Promote Safe, Sustainable Dive Tourism in India
New Delhi, India, 27th October, 2025: The Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI), the world’s leading diver training organisation, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Adventure Tour Operators Association of India (ATOAI) to strengthen safe and sustainable scuba diving practices in India.
This collaboration aims to enhance diver safety, standardise training in line with global best practices, and promote responsible marine tourism across the country.
With nearly 60 years of global experience, PADI brings its international expertise in diver education, while ATOAI, representing India’s adventure tourism sector, will work closely with tour operators and stakeholders to implement the highest safety and sustainability standards. Together, they seek to position India as a premier destination for safe and sustainable diving experiences.
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 showcase India as a world-class diving destination, enhance diver education and safety through PADI’s global standards, and support the 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 improving diver safety, aligning training programs with international standards, and supporting marine conservation initiatives such as underwater and beach clean-ups. PADI and ATOAI will also collaborate at national and international trade shows to promote India’s diving potential.
Ajeet Bajaj, President, ATOAI, added,
“This collaboration with PADI marks a significant milestone in India’s journey towards becoming a global leader in responsible adventure tourism. By combining ATOAI’s deep understanding of India’s adventure landscape with PADI’s global expertise, we aim to set new benchmarks in quality, safety, and sustainability. Together, we are committed to developing strong national standards for scuba diving and other adventure activities, ensuring that India offers world-class experiences while protecting our natural heritage.”
The PADI–ATOAI partnership is set to elevate India’s diving industry, boost local employment, and drive sustainable growth within the adventure tourism ecosystem.