Daijiworld Media Network – Panaji
Panaji, Jan 20: More than 800 beachgoers, including tourists and local residents, have participated in Drishti Marine’s Sagar Safar programme, a guided sea-swimming initiative aimed at promoting safe swimming practices, ocean awareness, and basic lifesaving skills along Goa’s coastline.
Launched in its current format on November 17, 2025, the programme has been conducted across six popular beaches in the state. Colva beach recorded the highest participation with 719 participants, followed by Sinquerim with 35, Benaulim with 33, Candolim with 11, Baga with 8 and Calangute with 2 participants.
The hour-long sessions are conducted free of cost every day at 11 am and 4 pm and are led by trained Drishti Marine lifesavers. Participants are taught how to identify and manage ocean currents, understand beach flag systems, overcome fear of the sea, and safely enter coastal waters with confidence.
Visitors can enrol directly with lifesavers stationed on the beaches. Information about upcoming sessions is also shared through real-time announcements via the Aurus AI-bot, along with QR codes displayed on lifeguard towers and Drishti Marine vehicles, which provide access to additional online resources.
Sharing his experience, tourist Prashant Thakare, who attended a session at Sinquerim beach, said the programme was both enjoyable and informative. “Sagar Safar is a unique experience that allows people to enjoy the beach while learning crucial safety skills. It’s something everyone should try at least once,” he said.
Originally introduced in 2021 under the name Swim With Lifesavers, the programme was revived and expanded following positive feedback from participants. It has proved especially beneficial for visitors from non-coastal regions and first-time swimmers unfamiliar with sea conditions.
Drishti Marine CEO Navin Awasthi said the growing participation reflects increased awareness among beachgoers about ocean safety. “Understanding currents, flag systems and safe swimming limits helps people make better decisions in the water. We are seeing more people take responsibility for their own safety,” he said.
Each session includes a safety briefing, a guided swim using buoyancy aids and life jackets, and an interactive discussion on rip currents, sea behaviour and emergency response basics. The Sagar Safar programme runs throughout the year, except during the monsoon season when swimming is unsafe.