Three beaches of Maharashtra have received the Blue Flag international certification for the first time

Shrivardhan Beach in Raigad District, Maharashtra, one of the three beaches in the state to receive the International Blue Flag certification for the 2026-27 season. | Photo credit: Special arrangement

Three beaches in Maharashtra – Ladghar and Guhagar in Ratnagiri district and Shrivardhan in Raigad district – have received the international Blue Flag certification for the 2026-27 season, the first time beaches from the state have secured the recognition.

Also read | What is the “Blue Flag” certification for beaches?

The International Blue Flag Jury announced the certification after the three beaches met prescribed standards for environmental protection, cleanliness, water quality, biodiversity protection, tourist safety, infrastructure and sustainable tourism management, according to the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change.

The Blue Flag certification is an internationally recognized eco-label awarded to beaches that meet strict environmental, safety and management standards.

According to the ministry, 22 beaches across India have received Blue Flag recognition for the 2026-27 season, including 13 beaches whose certification has been renewed and nine newly certified beaches. Maharashtra accounts for three of the nine new additions.

The Blue Flag season of the three Maharashtra beaches will begin on November 15. The official flags are brought from the Netherlands and will be handed over to the State Office for the Environment and Climate Change. A flag hoisting ceremony is also planned in coordination with the relevant district administrations and other unions.

The state government attributed the achievement to the coordinated efforts of the Department of Environment and Climate Change, Department of Tourism, District Administrations, Local Self-Governing Bodies, Gram-Panchayats, Beach Management Committees and local communities.

Minister of State for Environment and Climate Change Pankaja Munde said the certification was in recognition of Maharashtra’s efforts towards environmental protection, cleanliness and sustainable tourism.

“It is a proud achievement that adds to the glory of Maharashtra. The fact that Ladghar, Guhagar and Shrivardhan have received the international ‘Blue Flag’ award is a global recognition of the state’s continued efforts in environmental protection, cleanliness and sustainable tourism,” Ms. Munde said.

She added that the state government led by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis was committed to a balance between environment protection and development.

“This award will give the Maharashtra coast a new identity on the global tourism map and boost local employment and economy,” she said.

The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change said it plans to expand the Blue Flag program to other eligible beaches along the Maharashtra coast by developing facilities and management systems that meet international standards.

The initiative is expected to boost tourism-related businesses and local employment, while promoting environmental protection and sustainable coastal management, the ministry said.

Published – 11 Nov 2026 22:05 IST