India's first scuba training centre to open in January 2011

Travellers on scuba diving holidays in India will be able to train as certified divers the country's first scuba diving training centre currently under development in Malvan in the Sindhudurg district of Maharashtra.

India's long coastline features an array of beautiful diving sites with thriving marine life and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands on the east coast of India offer excellent conditions for scuba diving holidays and divers of all levels.

Construction of the training centre initially started in 2007 but due to technical problems, the project's progress slowed down but it is expected to be completed by January 2011.

Built over three acres of land, the new centre will feature a large pool, classrooms, a conference hall and modern communications. Professional divers will receive training which will enhance marine tourism in the area and the centre will offer affordable course for those who are looking to learn the sport without having to travel abroad for more expensive training.

The centre will feature the world's deepest swimming pool to help divers recognise the conditions and difference between deep sea and shallow water scuba diving in India. Pupils will also be able to take an internationally-certified diving course where an official explained that "Initial training will take four days, while pool and classroom training will take two days."

The diving centre will employ certified scuba diving instructors and local youths will be encourage to train as instructors, assistant instructors, dive masters, rescue divers, advanced water divers and open waters so they can also be employed in the local area.

Course available will range from short taster lessons for adults and children, to full internationally-recognised courses including the PADI Open Water Course, the PADI Advanced Open Water Course and the PADI Rescue Diver Course. Children will be able to take part in the PADI Seal Team course which will help them understand the basics of the fun water sport.

Marine biologist, Sarang Kulkarni, who has been appointed by the MTDC as an advisor for the project commented: "The landscapes and marine life in the Konkan coast are mesmerizing. It has everything from shark congregations to Groupers, Butterfly fish, Fusiliers, Puffer Fish, Snappers, Cobia and beautiful seascapes and rockscapes."

"You cannot compare the underwater landscape in the Konkan coast with that found in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands or the Lakshadweep Islands, the Red Sea or even the Great Barrier Reef simply because each region is blessed with its own inimitable beauty."