Maharashtra Bans Artificial Flowers to Protect Health and Support Farmers

The Maharashtra government has imposed a ban on artificial flowers to safeguard public health and promote the state’s floriculture industry.

Officials cited environmental concerns, noting that many artificial flowers are made of harmful plastics that pollute and hurt local flower farmers’ livelihoods.

With festivals like Ganeshotsav and Eid approaching, vendors, especially in markets like Lohar Chawl, have expressed concern over potential income loss.

Shopkeepers said there is no clarity on enforcement or assistance for shifting to alternatives. Some have urged the government to permit cloth-based flowers as a reusable, eco-friendly option.