World Dugong Day 'World Dugong Day' is observed annually on May 28th with the aim of raising global awareness regarding the conservation of dugongs (marine mammals also known as sea cows) and their vulnerable coastal habitats. The official theme for World Dugong Day is: "A Decade Beneath the Waves: Dugongs & Us." International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) officially recognised India's first Dugong Conservation Reserve in Palk Bay, Tamil Nadu, during the 2025 IUCN World Conservation Congress. Key Points The reserve was officially notified in September 2022 under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. This is India's first marine reserve dedicated to conserving dugongs, a vulnerable marine mammal species. Dugongs (Dugong dugon) are marine mammals listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List. The Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, provides the legal framework for such conservation reserves in India. World Hunger Day 'World Hunger Day' is observed annually on May 28th to raise awareness regarding global food insecurity and to inspire grassroots-level actions aimed at eradicating hunger. The theme for World Hunger Day 2026 is: "The End of Hunger is in Our Hands." The 'Blue Flag' Scheme The 'Blue Flag' scheme is a globally recognized eco-label awarded to beaches, marinas, and sustainable boating tourism operators that meet high standards across the fields of environmental management, safety, accessibility, water quality, and environmental education. This 'Blue Flag' certification is granted by the 'Foundation for Environmental Education' (FEE), based in Denmark, to beaches that fulfill 33 specific criteria related to cleanliness, aesthetics, and environmental sustainability. In 2001, the scheme expanded globally and has since emerged as one of the world's most recognized voluntary eco-awards. The selection process is conducted by an international jury representing organizations such as the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), the FEE, and…
