As Maharashtra govt bans artificial blooms, vendors stare at gloom ahead of festival season
Wednesday, 16 July 2025 () The Maharashtra government has banned artificial flowers, citing health hazards and the decline of the local floriculture industry. Legislators raised concerns about toxic substances in plastic flowers and their impact on farmers' livelihoods. Vendors, however, argue that cloth-based flowers are reusable and question the lack of clarity and transition plans, fearing significant economic consequences for their businesses and employees.