Operation of River Rafting / Kayaking Activities

Description
The scheme “Operation of River Rafting / Kayaking Activities” is implemented by the Uttarakhand Tourism Development Board under the Department of Tourism, Government of Uttarakhand. The scheme aims to promote safe and regulated adventure tourism in the state by allowing licensed rafting companies to operate and issuing certifications to qualified river guides.

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Benefits
• Rafting companies are permitted to operate, and licenses are issued to river guides, providing revenue benefits to the state and economic benefits to tourism businesses.
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Eligibility Criteria
1. The applicant must be a resident of Uttarakhand for at least ten years or a native of the state.
2. The applicant should possess advanced practical and technical knowledge of aero sports.
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Required Documents
• Application Letter
• Prescribed Application Form
• Insurance Certificate of the Firm
• Valid Registration Certificate under the Firms Societies Act
• Uttarakhand Travel Business Registration Certificate
• Proof of Three Years’ Experience in Adventure Activities
• Details of the Firm’s Working Staff
• Details of Rafts/Kayaks/Safety Equipment
• Application Fee Receipt (₹1000/-)
• Medical Fitness Certificate (proving complete health)
• Proof of Age (18–50 years)
• Educational Qualification Certificate (Class 10 Pass)
• Swimming Capability Proof (self-declaration or training certificate if applicable)
• Valid First Aid Certification (from Red Cross/St John’s Ambulance/other recognised institutions)

Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Who is eligible to apply for operating a rafting or kayaking firm?
A: Applicants must be residents of Uttarakhand for at least ten years or native to the state and should have advanced practical/technical knowledge of adventure sports.
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Q: Who can apply to become a certified river guide?
A: Individuals aged 18–50, in good health, capable of swimming, with a minimum education of 10th class, and holding a valid First Aid Certification.
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Q: When can applications be submitted?
A: Applications for the River Ganga are accepted from 1st July to 31st July, while applications for other rivers can be submitted throughout the year.
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Q: Is there any application fee?
A: Yes, the application fee for running a firm is ₹1000/- as per rules.
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Q: Who evaluates the applications?
A: The applications are first scrutinized by the Department of Tourism and then placed before the Technical Committee for inspection.
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Q: How long does it take to receive approval?
A: Applicants are informed of the permission and reasons by the Uttarakhand Tourism Development Board within 45 days of the Technical Committee’s inspection.
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Q: Is prior experience required to run a rafting/kayaking firm?
A: Yes, applicants must have at least three years of experience in adventure activities.
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