Q. Why is this in News?
A. Recently, the Blue Flag certification has been accorded to two new beaches - Minicoy Thundi Beach and Kadmat Beach- both in Lakshadweep.
- This takes the number of beaches certified under the Blue Flag certification to 12.
Q. What is Blue Flag Certification?
A.
- About:
- It is an internationally recognised eco-label that is accorded based on 33 criterias. These criterias are divided into 4 major heads namely,
- Environmental education and information
- Bathing water quality
- Environmental management
- Conservation and safety services in the beaches
- Blue Flag beaches are considered the cleanest beaches of the world. It is an eco-tourism model endeavouring to provide the tourists/beachgoers clean and hygienic bathing water, facilities, a safe and healthy environment and sustainable development of the area.
- It is accorded by the international jury composed of eminent members - United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO), Denmark-based NGO Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) and International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
- On the lines of Blue Flag certification, India has also launched its own eco-label BEAMS (Beach Environment & Aesthetics Management Services).
- Other 10 Beaches which have Received the Certification:
- Shivrajpur (Gujarat)
- Ghoghla (Daman & Diu)
- Kasarkod (Karnataka)
- Padubidri beach (Karnataka)
- Kappad (Kerala)
- Rushikonda (Andhra Pradesh)
- Golden beach (Odisha)
- Radhanagar beach (Andaman and Nicobar)
- Kovalam (Tamil Nadu)
- Eden (Puducherry)
