Andaman and Nicobar Islands Set Guinness World Record for Tallest Human Stack Underwater
On 3 May 2026, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands set a Guinness World Record for the tallest human stack underwater by assembling 14 scuba divers into a stable vertical formation measuring 22.3 metres at the Lighthouse dive-site on Swaraj Dweep, formerly known as Havelock Island. The human stack remained stable underwater for three minutes. Lieutenant Governor D.K. Joshi participated in the event, which was verified onsite by Guinness World Records adjudicator Rishi Nath. This achievement was the second consecutive Guinness World Record by the islands, following the largest national flag unfurled underwater on 2 May 2026. The records aimed to promote the islands as a premier global scuba diving and eco-tourism destination, supported by the Indian Navy, Coast Guard, and local police.
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Key Facts
- Date of Event: 3 May 2026
- Record: Tallest Human Stack Underwater
- Location: Lighthouse dive-site, Swaraj Dweep (formerly Havelock Island), Andaman and Nicobar Islands
- Height of Human Stack: 22.3 metres (73.16 feet)
- Number of Participants: 14 scuba divers
- Duration: Stable for 3 minutes underwater
- Chief Participant: Lieutenant Governor D.K. Joshi
- Verification: Guinness World Records adjudicator Rishi Nath
- Related Record: Largest National Flag Unfurled Underwater on 2 May 2026
Background & Context
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands, a Union Territory of India located in the Bay of Bengal, have been promoted as an international scuba diving destination known for clear waters and diverse marine life. Swaraj Dweep (Havelock Island) is prized for its scuba diving sites. In May 2026, an effort was made to enhance global visibility and tourism potential by setting two Guinness World Records on consecutive days. These events were organized with support from Indian defense and law enforcement agencies, emphasizing teamwork, safety, and environmental awareness. The underwater human stack demonstrated the high level of coordination and expertise of local divers while showcasing unique adventure tourism opportunities in the islands.
Why This Matters for Exams / Exam Relevance
This event is relevant for competitive exams in sections covering current affairs, geography, tourism, and Union Territories of India. The specific details such as the date, location, record type, participants, and officials involved are important factual points. Understanding the strategic importance of such records to regional development and tourism promotion offers candidates insight into government-led initiatives. Questions may also pertain to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands’ geographical and administrative context.
Points to Remember
- The record-setting date was 3 May 2026.
- The human stack comprised 14 scuba divers reaching 22.3 metres underwater.
- The stack was held stable for three minutes.
- The location was Swaraj Dweep, also known as Havelock Island, in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
- Lieutenant Governor D.K. Joshi actively participated in the record event.
- This achievement followed the largest national flag unfurled underwater on 2 May 2026 by the same administration.
- The events highlighted the islands as global scuba diving and eco-tourism destinations.
- Guinness World Records, the verifying authority, is a globally recognized record-keeping organization founded in 1955.
Sources & Further Reading
| Document / Website | Link |
|---|---|
| Andaman Islands make history with a 73-foot underwater human tower, setting a Guinness World Record - Times of India | Open Andaman Islands make history with a 73-foot underwater human tower, setting a Guinness World Record - Times of India ↗timesofindia.indiatimes.com |
| Andaman and Nicobar Islands Set Guinness World Record for Tallest Underwater Human Stack - GKToday | Open Andaman and Nicobar Islands Set Guinness World Record for Tallest Underwater Human Stack - GKToday ↗www.gktoday.in |
| Tallest Underwater Human Stack Formed; Andaman Sets Two Guinness World Records in 2 Days - The Hindu | Open Tallest Underwater Human Stack Formed; Andaman Sets Two Guinness World Records in 2 Days - The Hindu ↗www.thehindu.com |
| Lt. Governor Admiral DK Joshi to Participate in Both Underwater Guinness World Record Attempt at Swaraj Dweep – Andaman Chronicle | Open Lt. Governor Admiral DK Joshi to Participate in Both Underwater Guinness World Record Attempt at Swaraj Dweep – Andaman Chronicle ↗andamanchronicle.net |