Issuing strict instructions to maintain the dignity of the National Flag in the Punjab Government has banned the use of plastic flags.
“Authorities in Punjab have been directed not to use plastic flags which are not biodegradable like the paper flags. This affects the dignity of the flag. Also plastic, not being biodegradable, is harmful to the atmosphere,” stated a Punjab Government spokesperson. The State Government has issued the strict directions to all Divisional Commissioners, Deputy Commissioners and sub-divisional magistrates (SDMs) in this regard.
The authorities have been directed to ensure that during national, cultural and sports events, only flags made of papers are used by public in terms of provisions of the Flag Code of India. They would also ensure that “such papers flags are not discarded or thrown on the ground after the event. Such flags are to be disposed off in private consistent with the dignity of the flag”.