India, July 18 -- The Maharashtra government has announced a statewide ban on artificial flowers following sustained pressure from flower growers who claim that the influx of cheap, plastic flowers from China is severely impacting their livelihood.

Horticulture minister Bharat Gogawale made the announcement on Wednesday, stating that the decision comes after discussions with chief minister Devendra Fadnavis. "After consultations, the government has decided to permanently ban the use, sale, and distribution of artificial flowers in the state," Gogawale said.

Significantly, the move comes ahead of the festive season when the demand for flowers peaks, traditionally. According to farmers and flower growers who depend on this period to earn ...