Tarun Karthick
Sri Vijaya Puram, 21 July 2025
In a vibrant celebration of women’s empowerment and marine conservation, the Department of Tourism, Andaman and Nicobar Administration, in collaboration with leading dive associations and centres, organized Women’s Dive Day 2025 on July 19th. Themed #DivingDivas, the event witnessed enthusiastic participation from across the Islands, with the main celebrations held at North Bay and parallel events at Swaraj Dweep and Shaheed Dweep.
At North Bay, the event was conducted in partnership with North Bay Dive Club, Yogi Divers, Andaman Sea Wonders, and Dive Oceano. Special complimentary diving sessions for women were organized, encouraging them to experience the thrill of scuba diving and engage with the rich underwater ecosystem.
As part of the initiative, underwater clean-up missions were conducted at all three locations—North Bay, Swaraj Dweep, and Shaheed Dweep—highlighting the community’s commitment to marine conservation and sustainable tourism.
The North Bay event commenced in the morning and concluded in the afternoon with Superintendent of Police Ms. Niharika Bhatt gracing the occasion as Chief Guest. Ms. Mariam Bibi, Zilla Parishad Member, and Ms. Rashida, Pradhan of Hope Town, were present as special guests. The dignitaries felicitated members of the participating dive clubs and women instructors for their pivotal role in organizing the event.
Prominent women divers, including Ms. Sayali Ranadive (Main Dive Instructor), Ms. Gayatri (Assistant Dive Instructor, Barefoot Scuba), and Ms. Sharmila (Additional Dive Instructor), showcased their skills through live demonstrations and interactive sessions with aspiring divers. In a symbolic gesture of support, Ms. Niharika Bhatt also joined participants in an underwater dive, urging people to both explore and protect the ocean’s delicate ecosystem.
At Nemo Reef, Swaraj Dweep, Women’s Dive Day was celebrated with equal zeal. Organized in collaboration with PADI, SSI, and local dive operators, the event saw fifteen divers—including a significant number of women—leading a dedicated marine clean-up drive. The program emphasized the dual goals of environmental awareness and the vital contribution of women in adventure sports and marine conservation.
To ensure the smooth execution of activities, dive associations managed all logistical arrangements, including transportation of diving gear, site setup, and changing facilities. The event was supported by boat services from the Water Sports Complex to North Bay, ensuring easy access for participants and attendees.
The Department of Tourism also took the opportunity to honor pioneering women divers and express gratitude to all partner organizations, instructors, and volunteers. The event concluded on a high note, with participants sharing memorable underwater experiences and a renewed commitment toward marine protection.
Officials said the celebration of Women’s Dive Day 2025 marks a milestone in the Islands’ journey toward inclusive, adventure-driven, and eco-conscious tourism.
