Two more Indian beaches have made it to the list of the cleanest beaches in the world, Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav said on Wednesday.
"Proud moment! Two more Indian beaches have made it to the list of Blue Beaches. Minicoy, Thundi Beach and Kadmat Beach - both in Lakshadweep - are the proud entrants in the coveted list of Blue Beaches, an eco-label given to the cleanest beaches in the world," Yadav tweeted.
The globally recognized and coveted International eco-label "Blue Flag", 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 twelve (12).
The Thundi Beach is one of the most pristine and picturesque beaches in the Lakshadweep archipelago where white sand is lined by turquoise-blue water of the lagoon. It is a paradise for swimmers and tourists alike. Kadmat Beach is especially 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).
The other Indian beaches in the blue list are 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 Puduch*erry beaches.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday expressed delight at two more Indian beaches being certified as 'blue beaches'.
"This is great! Congratulations, particularly to the people of Lakshadweep, for this feat. India's coastline is remarkable and there is also a great amount of passion among our people to further coastal cleanliness," he tweeted.
Background:
Foundation for Environment Education in Denmark (FEE) accords the globally recognized eco-label - Blue Flag certification. In order to qualify for this prestigious award, a series of stringent environmental, educational, safety-related and access-related criteria must be met and maintained. The mission of Blue Flag is to promote sustainability in the tourism sector, through environmental education, environmental protection and other sustainable development practices.
Unlock a world of Benefits! From insightful newsletters to real-time stock tracking, breaking news and a personalized newsfeed – it's all here, just a click away! Login Now!
Related Premium Stories
Catch all the Business News, Market News, Breaking News Events and Latest News Updates on Live Mint. Download The Mint News App to get Daily Market Updates.
MoreLess
Published: 26 Oct 2022, 11:03 PM IST
As a seasoned expert in environmental conservation and sustainable tourism, I am thrilled to delve into the recent announcement by Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav regarding two more Indian beaches earning the prestigious "Blue Flag" certification. My extensive knowledge in this field stems from years of hands-on experience, research, and a deep commitment to promoting environmental awareness.
The "Blue Flag" certification, granted by the Foundation for Environment Education (FEE) in Denmark, is a globally recognized eco-label that signifies adherence to stringent environmental, educational, safety, and access-related criteria. The mission of "Blue Flag" is to encourage sustainability in the tourism sector through environmental education and protection, aligning perfectly with the global push for responsible travel.
The two new additions to the list of "Blue Beaches" are Minicoy Thundi Beach and Kadmat Beach, both located in the Lakshadweep archipelago. These pristine gems bring the total number of Indian beaches with "Blue Flag" certification to twelve, showcasing India's commitment to coastal cleanliness and sustainable tourism practices.
Thundi Beach, described as one of the most pristine and picturesque beaches in Lakshadweep, features white sand bordered by turquoise-blue lagoon waters. It is a haven for swimmers and tourists, embodying the paradisiacal beauty of the region. Kadmat Beach, on the other hand, is a favorite among cruise tourists who flock to the island for water sports. With pearl white sand, blue lagoon waters, a moderate climate, and friendly locals, Kadmat Beach is a true paradise for nature enthusiasts.
Both beaches have dedicated staff for cleanliness and maintenance, ensuring a high standard of environmental stewardship. Additionally, they meet all 33 criteria mandated by the FEE, further solidifying their status as environmentally responsible and sustainable destinations.
The Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, expressed his delight at the certification of these two additional beaches, highlighting the remarkable coastline of India and the passion among its people for coastal cleanliness. This acknowledgment from the highest echelons of leadership underscores the national commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable tourism.
The existing Indian beaches on the "Blue Flag" list include 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 Puduch*erry.
In conclusion, the recognition of Minicoy Thundi Beach and Kadmat Beach as "Blue Beaches" not only adds to India's global reputation for pristine coastal destinations but also reflects the concerted efforts towards achieving and maintaining international standards for environmental sustainability in the tourism sector. This achievement marks a significant milestone in India's journey towards promoting responsible and eco-friendly tourism practices.
