Call For Statewide Ban On Artificial Flowers Raised In Maharashtra Assembly Over Health And Environmental Risks
Call For Statewide Ban On Artificial Flowers Raised In Maharashtra Assembly Over Health And Environmental Risks
Mumbai | February 28, 2026
Serious concerns were raised in the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly by BJP MLA Vikram Pachpute during the ongoing Budget Session over the increasing use of artificial flowers across the state, with legislators demanding a complete ban on their production, sale, and use.
The issue was highlighted on the floor of the House at Vidhan Bhavan, drawing the attention of ministers and the Speaker to the growing health and environmental hazards posed by synthetic flowers.
Health Risks Underlined
Members pointed out that artificial flowers are now widely used at weddings, birthdays, public functions, government programmes, and festivals. Though they appear attractive and long-lasting initially, these flowers soon begin to release colour pigments. Experts have warned that fine toxic particles from these dyes mix into the air and enter the human body through breathing, posing serious long-term health risks.
The Assembly was informed that prolonged exposure to such chemicals can lead to respiratory diseases, skin disorders, allergies, and even neurological complications. Legislators stressed that this issue represents a significant public health concern that requires urgent government intervention.
Threat to Children’s Health
The issue of toxic colours was also linked to balloons, especially those used during festivals and Holi celebrations. Members warned that children often put balloons in their mouths while playing, increasing the risk of chemical exposure. The Assembly termed this a highly sensitive child health issue and urged the government to act immediately and decisively.
Environmental Damage and Plastic Pollution
Despite the ban on plastic in Maharashtra, plastic-based artificial flowers are being openly used and sold, members noted. Improper disposal of these flowers has led to plastic waste accumulating in garbage dumps, drains, and open spaces.
There were also concerns about animals consuming plastic flowers, resulting in severe intestinal diseases. Lawmakers highlighted that microplastics entering water bodies contaminate water, soil, and the food chain, ultimately affecting human health.
Link to Rising Lifestyle Diseases
The Assembly also flagged that even individuals with no addictions are increasingly being diagnosed with serious diseases like cancer, with growing exposure to toxic chemicals in daily life identified as a major contributing factor. Members called for strict regulations on the chemicals and dyes used in the manufacture of artificial flowers.
Push for Natural Flowers and Farmer Support
Legislators demanded a large-scale public awareness campaign to promote the use of natural flowers instead of artificial ones. They also urged the government to prioritise natural flowers in all government programmes and direct local self-governing bodies to issue clear guidelines.
It was stated that such steps would protect the environment, reduce plastic pollution, and provide significant economic support to flower-growing farmers across the state. The Assembly concluded that adopting eco-friendly, healthy, and sustainable alternatives is now an urgent necessity for Maharashtra.
