Scuba diving is no longer just a recreational activity in India; it is now gaining traction as a competitive sport. The vast coastal waters, coupled with the exotic marine life around the Andaman and Nicobar Islands and Lakshadweep, have made India a prime destination for divers. Scuba diving has evolved, from leisure dives to competitions like underwater photography, treasure hunts, and deep-sea exploration.
At the 2024 Indian Scuba Diving Championship, hosted at Havelock Island, divers from all over the country showcased their skills in different categories. Rakesh Kumar, a diver from Chennai, emerged as the winner of the deep-sea diving category, reaching a depth of 70 meters. The event also saw a surge of interest in competitive underwater photography, with participants capturing vivid images of India’s marine biodiversity.
The Scuba Diving Association of India (SDAI) is working hard to turn scuba diving into a competitive sport by setting up national-level competitions, standardizing safety protocols, and promoting the sport in schools and universities. The number of certified divers in India has increased dramatically over the last decade, and the SDAI plans to introduce more competitive diving events to increase public participation.