Mumbai: In a landmark step to make underwater exploration more accessible to Indian audiences, the Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI), the world’s leading scuba diving training organisation, has launched its “Discover Scuba Diving” (DSD) e-learning module in Hindi. With this release, PADI becomes the first diver-training institution in India to offer structured training content in the language spoken by millions.
The DSD programme is designed specifically for beginners, including those who do not know how to swim, enabling them to experience scuba diving safely under professional supervision. By offering the digital course in Hindi, PADI aims to break language barriers and expand the reach of scuba education to first-time divers across the country.
India’s long coastline and rising interest in marine tourism have contributed to the nation’s emergence as one of Asia’s fast-growing diving markets. Popular destinations such as the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Lakshadweep, Goa, and Puducherry have seen increasing numbers of Indian travellers opting for diving experiences. However, many enthusiasts stay away due to technical instructions and safety guidelines being available primarily in English.
The newly launched Hindi DSD e-learning module addresses this gap by presenting essential information—safety procedures, equipment usage, basic underwater skills, and communication techniques—in simple, easy-to-understand Hindi. Learners can complete the theory lessons online from their phones or computers before heading to a nearby PADI Dive Centre for practical training with a certified instructor.
Vinod Bondi, Regional Manager, PADI India, said the initiative will significantly improve accessibility.
“Scuba diving has always been for everyone, and language should never be a barrier to exploring the ocean. Until now, many Hindi-speaking PADI instructors had to translate and explain English materials separately. With the DSD Hindi e-learning module, it is easier and faster for participants to complete the online theory before entering the water,” he noted.
PADI’s move aligns with its broader mission to make diving education more inclusive, promote responsible marine tourism, and encourage ocean conservation among India’s growing community of sea lovers.
Globally, PADI is the largest purpose-driven diving organisation, with 6,600 dive centres and resorts, 128,000 professional members, and a network of over 30 million certified divers. For more than five decades, it has set industry standards in training, safety, and marine protection. Through its foundation, PADI AWARE™, the organisation drives global initiatives dedicated to ocean conservation.
With its Hindi learning rollout, PADI aims to bring the underwater world closer to India’s heart—empowering more people to discover, appreciate, and protect the ocean.
