Maharashtra Govt To Issue GR To Clarify Artificial Flower Ban, CM Fadnavis Tells Assembly
Mumbai | February 28, 2026
The Maharashtra government will soon issue a fresh Government Resolution (GR) to remove confusion surrounding the statewide ban on non-biodegradable artificial flowers, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis informed the State Legislative Assembly on Thursday.
The ban, which came into force in July 2025, prohibits the use, sale, and distribution of artificial flowers across Maharashtra. However, several legislators pointed out that the ban has not been effectively enforced, with synthetic floral products still being openly sold in markets.
Illegal Trade Continues
Raising the issue through a calling attention motion, BJP MLA Vikram Pachpute said the illegal trade in artificial flowers is causing serious loss to traditional flower growers who have made heavy investments in cultivation.
Backing the concern, NCP (SP) leader Jayant Patil stated that falling prices of natural flowers have pushed farmers into financial distress, as markets increasingly prefer artificial alternatives over fresh produce.
Farmers Facing Heavy Losses
Patil highlighted that farmers who have invested lakhs of rupees in greenhouse flower cultivation are now suffering significant losses due to shrinking demand for natural flowers. He urged the government to strictly implement the ban and introduce urgent measures to protect the livelihoods of cultivators and small traders dependent on the flower economy.
Strict Action Against Violators
Responding to the discussion, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis warned that decorators, event managers, and commercial establishments found using banned artificial flowers would face strict penal action. He said the illegal trade is damaging both farmers’ incomes and the environment due to the non-biodegradable nature of such products.
Protection of Traditional Flower Markets
Emphasising the cultural and economic value of natural flowers, Fadnavis said traditional flower markets must be preserved and strengthened. Referring to recent civic actions that led to the closure of some flower markets in Mumbai, he assured the Assembly that local authorities would be instructed to facilitate the reopening and proper functioning of natural flower trading locations to protect farmers and vendors.
