India, 20th November, 2025: Scapia, India’s leading travel fintech platform, announced the launch of the first chapter of its flagship Leap Year initiative in partnership with the Madhya Pradesh Ecotourism Board and Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board (MPTB). The initiative kicks off with a 15-day immersive conservation experience at Satpura Tiger Reserve, marking the beginning of a year-long
journey across four continents.
“Partnering with the Madhya Pradesh Ecotourism Board to launch the first leg
of Leap Year in Satpura marks an incredible beginning. It’s a partnership rooted
in purpose – celebrating travel that transforms and helping young Indians
explore the world with curiosity, empathy, and intent,” said Anil Goteti, Founder
and CEO, Scapia.
The two winners, Annapurna Maddi and Tanuka Agarwal, will spend 15 days at
the Satpura Tiger Reserve, one of India’s most biodiverse landscapes, working
with local communities and the forest department across Sohagpur, Pipariya,
and Pachmarhi. Their program includes joining field patrols using the MSTrIPES
app, wildlife census, studying conservation efforts, voluntary village relocation,
human–wildlife conflict mitigation, and other community-led initiatives. The
experience offers firsthand exposure to the work sustaining India’s forest
ecosystems and reflects Scapia’s belief that meaningful travel isn’t about where you go, but how it shapes who you become.
“Madhya Pradesh has the highest number of Tiger Reserves in India, and initiatives like this create more awareness and interest about wilderness experiences. We are delighted to partner with Scapia and look forward to seeing the travellers learn, contribute, and grow through their experience,” said Mr L Krishnamoorthy, Additional PCCF & CEO – Madhya Pradesh Ecotourism Board.
Launched earlier this year, Leap Year is Scapia’s passion-driven flagship initiative. This year-long program will take travellers to four continents – immersing them in diverse cultures, ecosystems, and communities that inspire curiosity and connection.
The Leap Year initiative received thousands of applications nationwide, with nearly 70% of entrants under 30, reflecting a growing generation that sees travel as a medium for learning and transformation. Finalists were evaluated by a jury of travel and culture leaders including chef Sarah Todd, storyteller Gaurav Sharma, and solo traveller Aakanksha Monga.
As Scapia’s Leap Year unfolds, upcoming chapters will continue across continents – celebrating journeys of discovery, learning, and purpose-driven exploration.
