Maharashtra’s Ladghar, Guhagar and Shrivardhan beaches receive International Blue Flag certification for 2026-27

Why in News?

Three beaches in Maharashtra—Ladghar and Guhagar in Ratnagiri district and Shrivardhan in Raigad district—have received the international Blue Flag award for the 2026–27 season. This marks the first time Maharashtra has received recognition under the programme.

Key Features

• Ladghar Beach: Ratnagiri district, Maharashtra.
• Guhagar Beach: Ratnagiri district, Maharashtra.
• Shrivardhan Beach: Raigad district, Maharashtra.
• Award season: 2026–27.
• Season commencement: 15 November 2026.
• The official Blue Flags are being brought from the Netherlands, after which a flag-hoisting ceremony will be organised.

About the Blue Flag Programme

• The Blue Flag is an internationally recognised voluntary eco-label for beaches, marinas and sustainable tourism boats.
• It promotes environmental conservation, cleanliness, water quality, biodiversity protection, tourist safety and sustainable tourism management.
• Awarded by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), Denmark.
• Sites must meet the prescribed criteria and maintain compliance throughout the award period.

Four Major Categories of Criteria

The certification is based on 33 criteria grouped under four major heads:

1. Environmental Education and Information: Awareness programmes and information about the local environment.
2. Bathing Water Quality: Compliance with prescribed standards for water quality.
3. Environmental Management and Conservation: Waste management, ecosystem protection and biodiversity conservation.
4. Safety and Services: Safety arrangements, sanitation, accessibility and visitor facilities.

Source: AIR & PIB

CLICK HERE: GS TIMES UPSC PRELIMS & MAINS CURRENT AFFAIRS BASED DAILY TEST (ENG & HINDI)

DOWNLOAD PDF: GS TIMES UPSC (CSE) PRELIMS & MAINS CURRENT AFFAIRS BASED MONTHLY TEST PDF

CLICK HERE: DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS QUIZ (FOR ALL EXAMINATIONS)

CLICK HERE FOR GS TIMES PRAHAR UPSC GS MAINS TEST SERIES