Dehradun: In a heartwarming and forward-thinking development for India’s adventure tourism sector, the HANIFL Centre and the Uttarakhand Tourism Development Board (UTDB) have signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to elevate safety standards and enrich visitor experiences across the stunning Himalayan rivers of Uttarakhand.

This collaboration focuses on delivering comprehensive First Aid and CPR training to adventure guides, starting with river rafting experts. In the first phase, 700 river guides will undergo intensive certification training from January 10 to the end of February 2026 — strategically timed during the lean rafting season when the waters of the mighty River Ganga and other Himalayan rivers are calmer, allowing guides to focus fully on skill-building without disrupting peak tourism.

Here are some breathtaking glimpses of the thrilling white-water rafting adventures that draw visitors from around the world to Rishikesh and beyond:

These images capture the pure exhilaration of navigating the rapids on the sacred Ganga — the largest and most iconic rafting hub in India. Every year, hundreds of thousands of adventure enthusiasts flock to these turquoise waters, creating waves of joy, laughter, and unforgettable memories against the dramatic backdrop of snow-capped Himalayan peaks.

The rafting industry in Uttarakhand is more than just a recreational activity; it’s a powerful economic engine. It generates an impressive annual turnover exceeding ₹200 crore (over $24 million) and provides direct and indirect employment to thousands of local community members, rafting operators, hotels, homestays, transporters, and small businesses. By investing in the safety and professionalism of these guides, the initiative ensures that this thriving sector can grow even more sustainably and confidently.

What makes this MoU truly historic is that it represents the first major safety-focused intervention by the Uttarakhand Tourism Development Board in 25 years specifically for adventure tourism. This long-overdue yet visionary step marks a turning point for the state — and indeed for adventure tourism across India.

“After 25 years, we are taking a decisive step to make adventure tourism in Uttarakhand not just thrilling, but truly world-class in terms of safety and professionalism. Through this MoU with the renowned HANIFL Centre, we are training 700 river guides in First Aid and CPR during the lean season starting 10 January 2026. This will ensure that every rafter on the sacred Ganga experiences pure exhilaration with complete peace of mind. Our goal is clear: empower our local guides, protect every visitor, and set a new benchmark for responsible adventure tourism across India.”

— Dhiraj Garbyal, Secretary, Tourism, Government of Uttarakhand

The positive ripple effects extend far beyond rafting. The UTDB has committed to expanding this life-saving training to guides involved in trekking, mountaineering, paragliding, camping, and other high-altitude adventure activities. This holistic approach promises to make Uttarakhand one of the safest and most reliable adventure destinations in the Himalayas.

This initiative is a shining example of responsible tourism done right: prioritizing human safety, community empowerment, and long-term sustainability. It sends a strong message that adventure and caution can — and should — go hand in hand.

As Uttarakhand continues to position itself as India’s premier adventure capital, this MoU opens the door to even greater tourism growth, increased visitor numbers, stronger local economies, and — most importantly — safer, more joyful experiences for everyone who comes to ride the rivers, climb the trails, and fall in love with the Himalayas.