Bengaluru student diver leads marine conservation efforts off India’s eastern coast

In response to rising concerns over marine pollution and habitat degradation, a Grade 11 student from an international school in Bengaluru has taken significant steps to contribute to ocean conservation. Maanya, a passionate scuba diver since 2018, recently completed the second phase of a marine conservation initiative along India’s eastern coastline.

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Partnering with a professional diving organization, Maanya engaged in critical underwater activities such as ocean cleanups and ecosystem restoration near Pondicherry. Battling strong currents and utilizing specialized diving tools, she actively participated in rehabilitating marine habitats.

As part of this initiative, Maanya earned two additional PADI certifications, enabling her to undertake advanced underwater tasks. Her most recent contribution involved constructing protective marine shelters by interweaving palm fronds to create safe zones for fish and breeding grounds for underwater flora. These efforts aim to support biodiversity and foster long-term ecological resilience.

Her journey underlines the growing involvement of youth in real-world environmental issues. Through her diving experiences, Maanya has developed a deep understanding of the negative impact of human-generated waste on marine life and ecosystems.

Her school emphasizes hands-on learning and environmental responsibility, encouraging students to engage with sustainability issues in meaningful ways. Maanya’s dedication to marine restoration showcases how individual efforts, when combined with passion and skill, can create lasting impact beneath the waves.

Her story serves as a compelling reminder of how the next generation is stepping up to protect the planet’s most fragile ecosystems.