Question: Recently Indian beaches have got Blue Flag Certification from an international jury, how many are these beaches?
a) 2
b) 3
c) 6
d) 8
Answer: (d)
Related Facts:
- On 11 October 2020; Ministry of Environment GoI announced about the Blue Flag Certification, given to eight Indian beaches by an international jury.
- Eight beaches spread across five states and two union territories in India.
- These beaches are Shivrajpur (Dwarka-Gujarat), Ghoghla (Diu), Kasarkod and Padubidri (Karnataka), Kappad (Kerala), Rushikonda (AP), Golden (Puri-Odisha) and Radhanagar (A&N Islands
- The International jury which awarded this recognition have comprised of members of the UN Environment Programme-UNEP, International Union for Conservation of Nature-IUCN) etc.
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi described the Blue Flag certification for eight beaches as a ‘wonderful feat’.
- He said that it showcases the importance India attaches to protecting such spots and furthering sustainable development.
- India is also the first country in Asia-Pacific region which has achieved this feat in just about 2 years’ time.
- The environment ministry on this occasion also informed that India has also been awarded the third prize by the jury under the “International Best Practices” for pollution control in coastal regions.
- With the feat, India is now in the league of 50 ‘Blue Flag’ countries.
- According to the government, India is planning to achieve Blue Flag certification for 100 such beaches.
About BLUE FLAG CERTIFICATION:-
- The Blue Flag certification is a globally recognised eco-label. Blue Flag is accorded by Foundation for Environment Education (FEE), Denmark.
- Blue Flag certification is granted based on 33 criteria under four heads –
(i) Environmental education and information
(ii) Bathing water quality
(iii) Environment management and conservation
(iv) Safety and services at the beaches.
- The Blue Flag certification is granted to beaches, marinas, or sustainable boating tourism operators that meet FEE’s set standards on the environment.
- In order to qualify for the Blue Flag, a series of stringent environmental, educational, safety, and accessibility criteria must be met and maintained.
- India is the only country that has received the Blue Flag certification in 2 years’ time.
- Japan, South Korea and UAE are the only other Asian nations that have been conferred with a couple of Blue Flag beaches in a time frame of about 5 to 6 years.
By – Rajesh Tripathi
Links:
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/travel/travel-news/in-a-first-8-indian-beaches-accredited-with-blue-flag-certificate/as78619887.cms
https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/8-indian-beaches-blue-flag-certification-pm-modi-hails-feat-eco-label-1730653-2020-10-12