Shaheed Dweep, Andaman and Nicobar Islands | 18 October 2026
Ten-year-old Iira Aditya Raut, a Class V student of Naval Children’s School, Karwar, has achieved a remarkable milestone by setting six underwater world records at the age of 10 years and one day. Her achievements were recognised by the International Book of Records on 18 October 2026 in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
Hailing from Buldhana, Maharashtra, Iira completed her record-setting attempts at the Dive Tribe Centre, Shaheed Dweep. Her certificates recognise six achievements spanning scuba-diving skills, marine-life identification and underwater performance, including the title of “Youngest Qualified Scuba Diver.”
According to the certificates issued by the International Book of Records, Iira’s six records are:
Youngest Qualified Scuba Diver: Recognised as the youngest qualified scuba diver in the world.
Maximum World Records Made Underwater in a Single Day: Recognised for making the maximum number of world records underwater at sea in a single day in the pre-teen category.
Maximum Scuba-Diving Hand Signals in One Minute: Recognised for performing the maximum number of scuba-diving hand signals underwater at sea in one minute.
Maximum Marine Species Identified Through Flashcards: Recognised for identifying the maximum number of marine species through flashcards underwater while scuba diving.
Maximum Distance Travelled Underwater in One Minute: Recognised for travelling the maximum distance underwater at sea in one minute while scuba diving.
Maximum Scuba-Diving Equipment Items Identified: Recognised for identifying the maximum number of scuba-diving equipment items underwater at sea.
The certificates state that the achievements took place on 18 October 2026 in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, when Iira was 10 years and one day old. Her scuba-diving qualification was certified by Scuba Schools International (SSI), according to the information provided about her achievement.
A childhood shaped by the ocean
With both her parents serving in the Indian Navy, Iira has grown up close to the sea. Her early exposure to the ocean helped nurture her interest in marine life and her desire to observe animals in their natural habitat.
Describing her first experience underwater, Iira said it felt like entering a completely different world. Among the most memorable encounters during her dives were seeing a dugong, the state animal of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, and hawksbill turtles. She also recalled seeing several varieties of marine fish, including puffer fish and trigger fish.
Although she was initially nervous about performing the backward roll from the boat before a dive, encouragement from her parents and guidance from her instructors helped her overcome her apprehension.
Her preparation involved listening carefully to her instructors and parents, reading and practising her course material. Reflecting on the experience, she expressed a lesson that extends beyond scuba diving: bravery does not mean never feeling scared; it means trying one's best.
A message to children: Dream big and stay curious
Beyond her underwater achievements, Iira has an important message for children who spend long hours playing mobile games.
She encourages young people to explore constructive activities and develop new skills rather than spending all their time on games such as PUBG and Free Fire. Learning coding and creating their own useful games and software are among the alternatives she recommends.
Children in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands also have opportunities to explore swimming, snorkelling, scuba diving and sailing. For those who prefer activities on land, participating in environmental initiatives such as beach cleaning can be another meaningful way to contribute to society.
Iira's own challenge to other children is particularly inspiring.
“मैं अंडमान में आई थी। मैंने छह रिकॉर्ड बनाए, पर आप तो 12 बना सकते हो,” she said.
Her words encourage children to dream big, remain happy and curious, believe in themselves, practise and persevere when trying something new.
Dreams beyond the records
Iira's ambitions extend well beyond scuba diving. She dreams of becoming an Olympic swimming champion, winning an Olympic gold medal for India and making her family and country proud.
She chose the Andaman Islands for her underwater record attempts because of their beautiful beaches, clear blue ocean and the knowledge she had gained about the region.
Her experience also strengthened her appreciation for the marine environment. During her dives, she observed dugongs and hawksbill turtles and spoke about the importance of protecting marine life. Her interest in the ocean offers a reminder that exploring the underwater world can also encourage greater awareness of the need to conserve it.
An inspiration for young achievers
Iira Aditya Raut's six record certificates mark a significant personal milestone at an exceptionally young age. Her journey highlights the value of curiosity, disciplined preparation, family encouragement and opportunities for children to explore interests beyond conventional activities.
Her message is simple: learn something new, stay curious, care for the environment and set ambitious goals.
As Iira continues to pursue her dreams in swimming and water sports, her achievement from the waters of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands sends an encouraging message to children everywhere: dream big, work towards your goals and never be afraid to aim even higher.