12 beaches across India to contest for 'Blue Flag’ certification

The Environment Ministry has shortlisted 12 beaches across India for the prestigious 'Blue Flag' certification. The beaches have to meet some criteria such as quality standards, facilities for waste disposal, disabled-friendliness, first-aid facility etc. The certification is given by the Foundation for Environmental Education and is the world's most recognised voluntary eco-labels awarded to beaches, marinas, and sustainable boating tourism operators. Here's the list of Indian beaches that are vying for the accolade.

Kappad Beach, Kerala

This beach is located near Kozhikode. It has a stone monument installed that commemorates the "landing" of Vasco da Gama. The stone has an inscription, 'Vasco da Gama landed here, Kappakadavu, in the year 1498'.

Radhanagar Beach, Andaman & Nicobar Islands

This beach is considered as one of the most beautiful beachesin Asia. It is also known as Beach No. 7. The beach has white sand and turquoise blue sea water with lush green trees surrounding it.

Golden Beach, Odisha

Located on the Bay of Bengal, this beach is not just a tourist spot but also a sacred place for Hindus. Puri Beach Festival is hosted on this beach annually.

Rushikonda Beach, Andhra Pradesh

Rushikonda Beach located in Vizag is popular among water sports lover. This beach has golden sand and tidy waves along with greenery, attracting nature lovers in huge numbers.

Mahabalipuram Beach, Tamil Nadu

Mahabalipuram beach is an attractive tourist destination, popular for its religious monuments, such as 8th century Shore Temple on the seashore.

Eden Beach, Puducherry

Eden beach is a beach popular for its natural beauty and serene ambience.

Padubidri Beach, Karnataka

Located in coastal district of Udupi, this place is popular for Dakkeballi, a ritual held every two years.

Kasarkod Beach, Karnataka

This beach is also known as Eco Beach. It is clean and not very crowded.

Miramar Beach, Goa

This beach was originally named as Porta de Gaspar Dias by the Portuguese and was later changed to Miramar. This beach is one of the most visited beaches of Goa.

Ghoghla Beach, Diu

Ghogla beach is located in the north of Diu town with very less visitors,leading to a cleaner surrounding.

Bhogav Beach, Maharashtra

Bhogav beach has foamy waves and silver sand andprovides habitation to dolphins.

Shivrajpur beach, Gujarat

Shivrajpur beach has clear water with white sand and is a habitat for dolphins and various birds species.