Blue Flag Certification

In News

Recently, Minicoy Thundi beach and Kadmat beach, located in Lakshadweep, have received the International eco-label ‘Blue Flag’.

Key Points

• The Thundi Beach:
  • One of the most pristine and picturesque beaches in the Lakshadweep archipelago 
  • White sand is lined by turquoise blue water of the lagoon. 
  • It is a paradise for swimmers and tourists alike. 
• The Kadmat Beach:
  • Popular with cruise tourists who visit the island for water sports. 
  • It is a paradise for nature lovers with its pearl white sand, blue lagoon waters, its moderate climate and friendly locals.
• Both the beaches have designated staff for beach cleanliness and maintenance; and for safety and security of swimmers. 
• Both the beaches comply with all the 33 criteria as mandated by the Foundation for Environment Education (FEE). 

About Blue Flag Certification Programme 

• Started in France in 1985 and in areas outside of Europe in 2001. 
• Globally recognised eco-label accorded on the basis of 33 stringent criteria in four major heads which are:-
  • Environmental education and information, 
  • Bathing water quality, 
  • Environmental management and 
  • Conservation and safety and services in the beaches.
• The certification is awarded to the cleanest beaches in the world by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE).
• 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)
• Indian beaches in the Blue List:
  • Shivrajpur-Gujarat, 
  • Ghoghla-Diu, 
  • Kasarkod and Padubidri-Karnataka, 
  • Kappad-Kerala, 
  • Rushikonda- Andhra Pradesh, 
  • Golden-Odisha, 
  • Radhanagar- Andaman and Nicobar, 
  • Kovalam in Tamil Nadu and 
  • Eden in Pondicherry.
  • With the new additions, the number of beaches certified under the Blue Flag Certification is twelve (12).

Source: LM