Karwar: An International Scuba Diving Utsav has been organised for the first time by the district administration in Murudeshwara Nethrani island in Bhatkal from January 6 to 7.

The district administration and department of tourism have released Rs 20 Lakh for the fest and the entire responsibility to organise the first-ever scuba diving fest has been entrusted upon Finkick Adventures company from Pune.

Over 150 contestants from across the globe will be participating in the fest. Also the district administration has planned screening of short movies based on local community, fishermen, the sea and the seashore. Exhibition, snorkeling and water games will be part of the fest.