Planet Scuba India to Drive #MakeInIndia Initiative for Scuba Diving Equipment


Introducing the manufacture of scuba diving equipment for the first time in the country 

 

Bengaluru, India – September 8, 2022: The Defence Bioengineering and Electromedical Laboratory (DEBEL), a
unit of Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), on Thursday, flagged off India’s first‐ever
venture to manufacture scuba diving equipment in the country.
The initiative is being spearheaded by Planet Scuba India (PSI), one of the country’s foremost scuba diving
companies, and a forerunner in bringing innovation to the diving industry in India. To drive the Government of
India’s #MakeInIndia initiative, it has introduced Taiwanese design house CREST Diving for the development of
state‐of‐the‐art scuba diving equipment in India.
Scuba diving equipment manufacture is a multi‐billion‐dollar global industry requiring high‐precision
engineering skills to create underwater breathing and survival systems that can survive the rigours of deep
oceans to fast‐flowing rivers and lakes. The major global brands are based in Europe and the US. China
manufactures lower‐end products like masks, fins, snorkels and wetsuits. Higher‐end products requiring
precision engineering and quality such as critical breathing systems are mostly designed and manufactured in
Taiwan.
India, despite its military prowess, and over 7,500 kms of coastline, has no manufacturing capability in this
sector. We are 100 percent import‐dependent, spending nearly $100 million a year. The country already has the
necessary infrastructure – from precision metal‐shaping and mould‐making to manufacturing various grades of
plastics and associated polymer products – thanks to the efforts of DRDO and India’s space programme.
Planet Scuba India, an early starter in the country’s diving industry, having begun operations in 2008, has been
importing and distributing diving equipment for the last 14 years. Now, encouraged by DEBEL and military divers,
PSI’s two‐pronged approach aims to not only help bring some of the best scuba diving technology to our shores,
but also to provide the world an alternative to China for the manufacture of dive equipment. The objective is to
create an end‐to‐end dive equipment manufacturing eco‐system in the country. To this end, PSI hasroped CREST
Diving into designing and manufacturing of some of its high‐end products in India.
“We laud this effort to bring manufacturing of diving equipment to India. It is a great step towards the
government’s Atmanirbhar Bharat or Make in India initiative. DEBEL has already made greatstridesin developing
several underwater breathing and survival products for the military, and will support all such ventures that lead
to indigenisation of technology and products,” said DEBEL’s Joint Director, Dr R Indu Shekar at the launch event
in the city.
“The Make In India initiative and the world’s need for an alternative to China have come together to give us a
geo‐strategic opportunity. This is our contribution to our passion for diving and the oceans,” said PSI’s Managing
Director, Madhava Reddy, adding that, “With help from Taiwan and CREST Diving, we will help bring India up‐
to‐ speed on existing technologies in diving, and then with help from Indian research agencies like DEBEL, create
new products both for India and the world. We will do our best to create an eco‐system in the country for the
manufacture of underwater breathing equipment.”

Scuba diving for Fit India & other health benefits


When most people think about scuba diving, they picture vibrant coral reefs, sea turtles and fascinating marine life. And though, these are definite reasons to go scuba diving, they are not all that diving has to offer. Did you know that scuba diving has a multitude of positive health benefits? Yes, we are talking of scuba diving for Fit India! Some of the scuba diving health benefits are derived from the physical activity it entails. But there are also proven mental health benefits. In fact, you might be surprised to learn just how far reaching the effects of scuba diving are on both your physical and mental well-being.

Scuba Dive for Fit India & A Healthier You

Here are just a few key benefits you experience when you go scuba diving in India:

Scuba Dive for Fit India1. It improves your breathing and respiratory system.

Scuba diving encourages divers to take long, slow, deep breathes. A calm, slow breathing pattern reduces the risk of a lung-expansion injury while diving. But did you know that it also helps reduce mucus build up?! This breathing pattern has also been known to help with existing conditions, such as asthma. The breathing technique used during diving is similar to that used during some styles of meditation, including yoga. It helps slow down your heart rate, promoting a state of peacefulness. Slow rhythmic breathing can also have a calming effect on your psyche.

2. It increases your fitness levels, strength and flexibility.

Have you heard of resistance training? When you go scuba diving, you’ll be doing that too! Your muscles have to work harder underwater than they would on land due to the increased resistance caused by the water around you. The level of resistance increases significantly when you are swimming against even a mild current. That’s why we recommend scuba diving for Fit India. The more you dive and swim, the more your muscles begin to strengthen. And you’ll also develop endurance as well as flexibility. Scuba diving and swimming doesn’t only give your legs a workout. It can also help build up your core strength, which is important for a good overall posture.

3. It lowers your blood pressure

Remember the first time you went underwater? In all likelihood, you would have experienced a spike in blood pressure. Most divers do, due to the excitement and adrenaline. But this is usually only a temporary increase. Once you have recovered from the initial spike, your heart rate reduces, so does your blood pressure. The slow and deep breathing technique you learn helps lower your blood pressure and keeps you calm throughout the dive.

4. It introduces you to the spectacular marine life underwater

Seeing stunning coral reefs and a fabulous array of fish and critters is enough to put anyone in a good mood. Also, it has been proven that seeing certain colors can affect the brain in many different ways. Scientists believe that being subjected to bright, intense colors, similar to the ones we might find surrounding reefs, can promote feelings of happiness. It can uplift your mood. In addition, the color blue has been known to induce a calming effect on the body.

health and fitness with scuba diving5. It encourages you to travel around the world on an adventure

Yes, it is possible to dive virtually anywhere on the planet that has a body of water. However, divers tend to travel more than they dive at home. Traveling overseas, exploring and taking time off work, all lead to adventures, excitement and positive experiences. All of which are good for your body, mind and soul. Infinitely much better than being stressed, bored and stuck in a rut, don’t you agree?!

6. It provides you with the healing effects of water

Being underwater has many healing benefits. The likeness to being in the womb is believed to promote feelings of security, well-being and happiness. In addition, being in salt water for long periods of time can cause your body to dehydrate meaning that you tend to drink a lot more after the dive. This in turn means that you are replenishing your cells. You are receiving all the benefits of water both externally and internally.

7. It exposes you to sunlight

Being exposed to sunlight creates vitamin D. Vitamin D helps the absorption of calcium, which in turn keeps bones healthy and strong. Exposure to sunlight also helps increase endorphin production. Now you know why we scuba divers are a happy lot.

8. It has socializing benefits

Diving is a social activity. It involves diving with a buddy. And among divers, we find like-minded people with a common interest. There is a sense of community. A sense of being part of a ‘tribe’ when spending time with other divers. All of which are positive feelings and good for your mental well-being. Did we mention that it also helps lower stress, building confidence and gives you a sense of security and belonging!

scuba diving for fit India9. It is a great stress reliever

We have mentioned it earlier that the breathing pattern for diving is similar to a meditative breathing pattern. Meditating is a great remedy for stress too. Slower breathing promotes calmness. Not just that, but when we are diving, we are focused on the environment around us which enables us to completely forget work, family, relationships or financial issues. Having this mental ‘time out’ gives the body a chance to rest. It brings the nervous system back to its natural balance. Studies have shown that a relaxed and calm mind promotes a positive mental attitude. It helps you deal with your issues in a calm and rational manner. It reduces feelings of depression.

Corona Virus & Fitness

There are many uncertainties and unknowns surrounding the Corona Virus pandemic. But one thing that is widely believed to be true is that the effects of COVID-19 are generally less severe in a person who is physically healthy and fit. We know, you may not cherish the thought of going to the gym to work on your fitness, but how about going diving instead!

Scuba Diving in India

At Plant Scuba India, we are following recommendations regarding scuba diving health and hygiene standards. We have new procedures in place to ensure that gear is disinfected and all recommendations are being met. If you have tested positive for COVID-19, you will require a doctors medical clearance, as a precautionary measure, prior to participating in any in-water activities. Contact us by email and we can provide you with a form for your doctor to sign.

If you’d like to learn to dive or to join us for fun diving in India, or if you have any questions about scuba diving for Fit India, health and diving, or corona virus and diving, contact us on: holidays@planetscubaindia.com.

We look forward to diving with you soon!

Text: Sarah Ann Wormland, PADI

Photos (in order of appearance): Madhava Reddy, David ST Loh, Gopala Krishnan

Dive gear and scuba courses at 50% off


sale extended

 

Planet Scuba India turns 12 this year.

To celebrate, we have announced our Big Anniversary Sale, with up to 50% off on dive gear and scuba courses.

Yes, you heard that right. We have slashed our prices so you can stay safe during Covid-19 by diving with your own scuba equipment. The good news is that scuba diving in India has already begun in a few places. And, it is only a matter of time before you leap into the blue again.

SHOP NOW, PAY LATER FOR DIVE GEAR & SCUBA COURSES

What’s better than getting a 50% discount? Not having to pay the entire amount in one go. Our EMI facility at Planet Scuba India ensures  you pay for your already discounted dive gear in installments. We can’t think of a more enticing reason to pick up new scuba gear or sign up for your PADI dive course right now!

Get in touch with us on +91-9686446033 or email us at holidays@planetscubaindia.com for more details on our EMI option.

15% OFF ON PADI COURSES IN INDIA

Learn scuba diving in India. Stay ahead of the curve by finishing the theory sessions of your PADI course, and be the first to jump into the ocean. We are offering 15% discount on: 

Fill out our contact form here or drop us an email at holidays@planetscubaindia.com and we will get right back to you. Keep an eye out for our next blog on fun PADI contests and giveaways coming soon.

BIG ANNIVERSARY SALE

New offers on dive equipment from Aqua Lung, Apeks, Omersub and Ocean Technology Systems coming up every 10 days from August 22 – September 30, 2020. Make sure you save this link and check in later if you don’t see the discount on the dive equipment you wish to purchase right now.

Anniversary Sale of Apeks dive gear in India

August 22-31, 2020

20% OFF ON DIVE GEAR

  • Masks, including the Ocean Technology Systems (OTS) full face mask
  • Fins
  • Booties
  • Wetsuits
  • Rashguards
  • Dive computers
  • Select BCDs: Dimension, Zuma, Pro HD, Black Ice
  • Select regulators: Mikron, XTX40, XTX50, XTX200

15% OFF ON DIVE GEAR

  • Apeks Sidemount sets: XTX50 regulator kit, WSX 25 sidemount harness

September 1-10, 2020

30-50% OFF ON DIVE GEAR

  • Select Aqua Lung Legend regulator sets
  • Dive pointer sticks

20% OFF ON DIVE GEAR

  • Masks
  • Dive computers
  • Surface Marker Buoys
  • Reels
  • Reef hooks
  • Dive torches
  • Dive knives

September 11-20, 2020

30-50% OFF ON DIVE GEAR

  • Select Aqua Lung Legend dive bags

20% OFF ON DIVE GEAR

  • Fins
  • Booties
  • Wetsuits
  • Rashguards
  • BCDs: Zuma, Pro HD
  • Regulators: XTX40, XTX50, XTX200

September 21 -30, 2020 

LAST IN STOCK OFFER: 30 – 50% OFF 

We extended our biggest Anniversary sale ever till September 30, 2020. Now get 50% off on select fins, masks, wetsuits, rashguards, dive computers, regulators and other dive gear. 

Download the products list here: PLANET SCUBA INDIA – LAST IN STOCK OFFER

View all products and specifications at Divestock.in

We promise some great deals in the coming days too. Message us on +91-9686446033 for more information or any queries you may have. View or download our dive equipment catalog from the links below:
Aqua Lung &amp Apeks Catalogue (.pdf)
OTS, Aqua Lung Snorkeling Catalogue (.pdf)

Diving equipment in India: Buy vs Rent!


India diving equipment Aqua Lung and Apeks

 

It is a common dilemma: should you buy your own scuba diving equipment in India or continue renting your dive gear. If you think you’d like to buy scuba gear, you may be asking yourself: ‘when is the right time to buy?’ Or ‘which dive equipment is the most important to purchase first?’ Or even, ‘is it more essential to buy now due to Covid-19?’

Buying your own scuba diving equipment is an investment. Hence, it is important to look at all of the options before making a decision that is right for you personally. After all, there is no one universal answer. But there are some good guidelines to help you reach your decision. Here are some pros, cons and suggestions for both new and experienced scuba divers to help you navigate your way around the scuba diving equipment store!

 

Buying vs renting scuba diving equipment in India

It is not necessary to have your own scuba diving equipment if you plan on going diving with a certified dive center. However, there are some exceptions such as:

  • Professional divers who may be required to have their own scuba gear for work
  • Divers who have special fitting requirements
  • Scuba adventurers planning trips to remote destinations (or on some liveaboards) that require you to supply at least your own basics dive equipment. These include mask, snorkel, fins and wetsuit.

It is not imperative to buy scuba equipment due to Covid-19. However, everyone has different comfort levels regarding buying versus renting. If you do not feel comfortable renting gear, you may wish to purchase key items such as a mask, snorkel, regulator mouthpiece, rashguard and wetsuit. Today, most scuba divers in India, and even snorkelers, prefer owning at least the key dive equipment. Quite a few scuba divers in India are even choosing to purchase their own regulators right now. 

On the other hand, if you feel comfortable renting dive gear, you should check the precautions your chosen dive center is taking to prevent the spread of Covid-19 via their rental equipment. The Divers Alert Network (DAN) has published guidelines for dive centers. It details how to care for rental gear and how to correctly disinfect equipment between uses.

At Planet Scuba India, we not only meet these guidelines, we exceed them! We are taking the utmost safety measures to disinfect our equipment. Both our rental scuba gear, as well as dive equipment that is being serviced by us. (You can find additional details here.) 

 

Planet Scuba India dive equipment

 

The pros of buying your own dive gear

There are numerous plus points to owning your own dive gear, these include:

1. Comfort & fit

When you buy your own scuba gear, you’ll take some time trying on different sizes and styles. You will make sure that you get the fit that is most comfortable for you. This is important – a badly fitting rental BCD or a leaking mask can really take away from your diving enjoyment.

2. Safety through familiarity

When you have your own dive equipment, you get familiar with it. You know exactly where everything is, which increases your safety. Your SMB is always in the same pocket. You know where you have hooked your alternate air source. And it is easy to locate your other accessories.

3. Long-term savings

Equipment rental prices can vary considerably, depending on where you are diving. When going on longer dive holidays, gear rental can make a sizable difference to the overall cost of your trip. Especially if you are planning on diving every day.
At Planet Scuba India, our PADI courses (up to and including PADI Rescue Diver) include equipment rental in the price.

4. Trust

Owning your diving equipment in India, or anywhere else in the world, means that you know its service history. Since you alone are using it, you know that it has been well looked after. At Planet Scuba India, all of our rental gear is either new or well-maintained. We follow a thorough maintenance schedule. We are an Aqua Lung Partner Dive Center. This means we have trained technicians on site to service Aqua Lung, Apeks and the other equipment brands we represent. You can rest assured that your scuba gear is being professionally serviced.

5. The right item for the job

Some divers have specific scuba equipment requirements, which may not be guaranteed if you are renting. For example, an underwater photographer may need large BCD pockets to store interchangeable wet lenses. You often have limited options when renting gear. It is best to buy your own dive equipment to avoid being disappointed. Especially if you have special requirements. 

6. Multi-purpose

Not all diving gear is only for scuba diving. Your mask, snorkel and fins double up as snorkeling gear for your next beach holiday. Wetsuits can be used for other water sports. Rashguards can be used while swimming in the pool to avoid sunburn. Many dive computers also include free-diving modes.

7. Dive computers

Each dive computer has different settings, buttons, menus, functions and algorithms. It can be both frustrating and time consuming to try and figure out a different model of rental computer each time you go diving. More importantly, it can also potentially compromise your safety. More so if you do not fully understand the information on the display. Owning your own dive computer means you will get to know how it works. Also all of the dives stored in its memory will be your own dives. Many computers also link up to apps and/or your laptop so you can transfer your logged dives instantly.

 

The pros of renting your scuba gear

Aqua Lung scuba diving equipment in India

1. Baggage allowance

Consider your baggage allowance if you are planning on going diving on holidays. Some airlines provide additional allowance for scuba gear. However, if they don’t, you could be charged for excess baggage at the airport. That said, quite a few companies have come out with lightweight scuba gear that’s perfect for travel.

2. Different locations, different requirements

That 3mm shortie you love may be great when you are scuba diving in India or in the tropics. But what about when you travel to cooler waters?!

3. Maintenance & servicing

You need to look after your scuba equipment, and this extends beyond rinsing it after diving. Dive computers need battery changes. BCD inflator hoses need to be cared for. Regulators need servicing and parts (especially O-rings) need replacing periodically. We, at Planet Scuba India, are currently offering free servicing on Aqua Lung and Apeks diving equipment in India. So that you can take that giant leap into the blue without stressing about your gear. For details, click here.

4. Storage

You will need somewhere to store your equipment at home when you are not using it. This should be somewhere cool and dry, where it can be hung up or laid flat.

5. Try before you buy

Here’s the kicker with scuba gear: in most dive stores, you can try the gear on in the shop, but not in the water! One way around this is to note down the rental gear that you really like. Record the manufacturer and model name (and size) and start creating a wishlist.

6. Finances

There is no way around this one; buying a full set of gear is a big investment.

Important: If you decide to buy your own scuba gear, only buy it from a reputable dealer and follow the manufacturers’ instructions. Keep your receipts, warranties, guarantees.

 

Scuba India dive equipment

 

Scuba diving equipment in India & Covid-19

To ensure the safety of our staff and scuba divers, at Planet Scuba India, we have implemented additional disinfection measures post the onset of Covid-19, especially with regards to our rental equipment. All rental equipment will be thoroughly disinfected after each use. The entire regulator system including the primary and the alternate air source will be disinfected, as will the BCD oral inflator and the internal bladder.

For scuba divers who prefer to purchase their own equipment, we have a well-stocked dive store comprising the best scuba diving equipment in India, from the best brands from around the world. Our experienced staff are on hand to offer any advice regarding fit, suitability and compatibility of your scuba gear purchase.

Have some more questions about diving equipment in India? Simply drop us an email at holidays@planetscubaindia.com or sales@planetscubaindia.com.  You could also just fill in our online contact form here, and we will get right back to you!

We look forward to diving with you soon!

Text: Sarah Wormland, PADI (with inputs from Planet Scuba India)

Dive India & Advance Your Scuba Skills


 

Did you ever dive in India? Are you a certified diver who wants to develop your skills, learn new ones and become a more confident diver? Are you trying to decide between taking a core PADI course or a specialty?

The good news is that as a certified diver you have plenty of options to dive in India. We have a diverse range of sites in our country for you to explore; all while you develop your skills and learn new techniques.

Deciding on which course to take next depends on your current certification level. It also depends on your interests and what you want to get out of the program.

If you are a PADI Open Water Diver, the next course for you is the PADI Advanced Open Water Diver course. This is our recommendation for all Open Water Divers who want to dive India or anywhere else in the world! You’ll make 5 incredible dives with your instructor, including a deep dive and underwater navigation. The other three dives are yours to choose from a wide range of options. In fact, you can start learning most of the courses from home straight away! Get in touch with us to know how.

For those who are already Advanced Open Water certified, the next step is the PADI Rescue Diver Course. Do you want to become a PADI Divemaster or Instructor? Then you’ll need to become a PADI Rescue Diver first. It is a requirement for all pro courses.

 

dive in India

 

Here are some other programs that might be of interest to you when it comes to developing specific skills…

Reactivate:

With the current Covid-19 situation, in all probability, it has been a while since your last dive. Do you want to recap some of the essential basic underwater skills before moving on? No problem, the PADI reactivate program is specifically designed for this purpose. It will get you back in the water and make you feel confident about your abilities!

Enriched Air Specialty:

It seems so unfair when you have plenty of air left and your computer tells you to shallow up. Ever wished you could stay deeper for longer? Diving with Enriched Air (Nitrox) increases your allowable bottom time. This means you can admire the depths of your favorite dive sites in India, for longer!

Emergency First Response:

This program is a complete CPR and first aid course. It is mostly known by its abbreviation: EFR. The course deals with all aspects of emergency assistance, not just those related to diving. You’ll learn about handling accidents at home and in other daily situations too. Topics covered include CPR, spinal injuries, serious bleeding, choking, shock, splinting… It also includes first aid assessments and many more techniques that can extend a patient’s life. This is a great certification for anyone as it teaches essential lifesaving skills.

PADI Divemaster:

Are you already a PADI Rescue Diver? Thinking of a career in the scuba diving industry in India? Then the PADI Divemaster Course is your first step into professional diving! Unlike other PADI Courses, you’ll be mentored and work alongside your instructor. You’ll gain insight into the workings of the industry and behind-the-scenes at a dive center. You’ll also develop the skills required to assist PADI Instructors with PADI courses. And also learn how to guide certified divers independently.

 

scuba diving in India

 

Digital Underwater Photography Specialty:

It’s hard to explain to non-diving family and friends about some of the beautiful life we see underwater. But with amazing images, you don’t need to! Master the techniques required to produce sharper and more colorful images which will impress your buddies and land-loving friends! The best part is that you don’t have to travel too far to get fabulous photographs. There are many sites that you can dive in India too for some amazing clicks and memories.

Other PADI Specialties:

Is there a particular type of diving you want to learn more about? We also offer a full range of PADI Specialty Courses. These allow you to learn more and develop knowledge in specific aspects of diving. Here’s the list of additional PADI specialty courses: Boat Diver. Deep Diver. Drift Driver. Night Diver. Peak Performance Buoyancy. Search & Recovery Diver. Underwater Naturalist. Underwater Navigation. Wreck Diver.

Are you feeling inspired to take your diving to the next level? For more information, send us a message through our online contact form. Or you can email us at: holidays@planetscubaindia.com and we will get right back to you!

 

By Sarah Wormald, PADI