June 17 — In a landmark initiative aimed at promoting marine tourism and preserving naval heritage, India is set to establish its first-ever underwater museum, developed on the decommissioned Indian Navy warship INS Guldar. The museum will be located off the coast of Puducherry and is expected to become a major attraction for divers, tourists, and maritime historians.
INS Guldar, a Landing Ship Tank (LST), was commissioned in 1974 and served the Indian Navy for over four decades before being decommissioned in 2018. The ship played a crucial role in numerous naval operations, including the transportation of troops and military equipment. As part of the new project, INS Guldar will be intentionally sunk to the seabed to function as an underwater museum and artificial reef.
Officials from the Ministry of Defence and the Indian Navy confirmed that the museum will provide visitors with a unique underwater experience, allowing them to explore the preserved interiors of the warship. The initiative is aimed at merging historical preservation with environmental sustainability, as the submerged vessel is expected to encourage coral growth and become a thriving habitat for marine biodiversity.
“The underwater museum will not only showcase India’s naval legacy but will also promote eco-tourism and marine conservation,” an official from the Indian Navy stated. “It will serve as a model for future projects that combine heritage with sustainability.”
Marine engineers and environmental experts are currently working on the structural modifications needed to ensure the safe transformation of INS Guldar into a diving site. Once operational, the museum will offer guided underwater tours, diving certifications, and educational programs for students and researchers interested in marine ecology and maritime history.
The project is also aligned with India’s Blue Economy vision, which emphasizes the sustainable use of ocean resources for economic growth, improved livelihoods, and jobs while preserving the health of ocean ecosystems.
Tourism officials in Puducherry have welcomed the move, calling it a potential game-changer for the region’s tourism sector. Known for its colonial architecture and serene beaches, Puducherry will now add underwater heritage tourism to its offerings. The museum is expected to attract both domestic and international tourists, thereby boosting local employment and economy.
Preparations for the project are already underway, with diving safety protocols, marine conservation measures, and heritage preservation guidelines being finalized in collaboration with multiple agencies.
Once completed, the INS Guldar underwater museum will stand as a tribute to India’s rich naval history and its growing commitment to sustainable tourism. The project is expected to be opened to the public within the next 12 to 18 months, pending environmental clearances and safety certifications.
