Three Beaches in N&M Andaman Internationally Recognized as Blue Flag-Certified Beaches for 2026-27
Sri Vijaya Puram, Nov. 12: In yet another significant achievement in its endeavour to promote sustainable, responsible and environment-friendly tourism, the A&N Islands have added three more beaches to the prestigious list of internationally recognised Blue Flag-certified beaches for 2026–27.
The three beaches are Ramanagar Beach at Diglipur, Karmatang Beach at Mayabunder and Raman Bagicha Beach at Rangat, all located in North & Middle Andaman District. In addition, the Blue Flag Certification of the renowned Radhanagar Beach at Swaraj Dweep in South Andaman District has been successfully renewed for the period 2026–27. This recognition further strengthens the Islands’ standing as an emerging destination for sustainable coastal tourism.
The Blue Flag Certification is an internationally acclaimed eco-label awarded to beaches that fulfil stringent 33 criteria i.e. environmental and quality standards, including environmental education and awareness, bathing water quality, environmental management, safety and tourists’ amenities. The certification reflects a beach’s commitment to maintaining high standards of cleanliness, environmental sustainability and tourist safety.
This achievement is the result of the concerted efforts and inter-departmental coordination of the Tourism Department, Forest Department and Rural Development Department/Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) of the A&N Administration. Their collective efforts have been instrumental in improving beach infrastructure, strengthening environmental management measures and ensuring compliance with the prescribed certification criteria.
The National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT), Ministry of Earth Sciences, Government of India, also extended valuable technical support by undertaking water quality sampling and testing and conducting Safety and Risk Assessments for the above beaches, which formed an important part of the certification process.
This accomplishment is expected to further enhance the national and international recognition of the A&N Islands as a premier sustainable tourism destination. It will also encourage responsible tourism practices, strengthen conservation of the Islands’ fragile coastal and marine ecosystems and provide visitors with safe, clean and environmentally friendly beach experiences.