India’s Blue Flag Beaches: 8 Beaches Receive Prestigious International Recognition

Team L&M

An international jury comprising members from UNEP, UNWTO, FEE, and IUCN has awarded the Blue Flag to eight beaches across India. These pristine beaches are located in:

• Dwarka, Gujarat
• Ghoghla, Diu
• Kasarkod & Padubidri, Karnataka
• Kappad, Kerala
• Rushikonda, Andhra Pradesh
• Golden Beach, Puri, Odisha
• Radhanagar, Andaman & Nicobar Islands

India has also received a third prize under “International Best Practices” for pollution control in coastal regions.

India’s Remarkable Achievement in a Single Attempt

While countries like Japan, South Korea, and UAE have taken five to six years to get a couple of Blue Flag beaches, India achieved this milestone in a single attempt. This places India among the top 50 Blue Flag countries globally.

India’s Vision: 100 Blue Flag Beaches

India began its journey in 2018 with pilot beaches in each coastal state and union territory. With eight beaches certified for the 2020 tourist season, the country now aims to expand to 100 certified beaches within the next five years, boosting sustainable tourism, coastal conservation, and beach safety.