Delhi University bans bouquets, mementos at official events

Delhi University (DU) has announced a ban on presenting bouquets and mementos to guests at official functions, introducing a new protocol that emphasises simplicity, sustainability and social responsibility.

Officials said the move followed a suggestion made by Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan during his recent visit to DU, where he urged the institution to adopt practices that avoid waste and promote more meaningful gestures at ceremonial occasions.

Under the new guidelines, organisers are required to replace decorative bouquets and gift items with alternatives such as a single flower string, a ceremonial angavastram (traditional stole), or a fruit basket. In addition, the fruits presented at such events must later be distributed to underprivileged children studying in government schools or living in orphanages.

University officials explained that the step has been taken to reduce unnecessary expenditure, discourage wasteful traditions, and align DU’s ceremonial practices with broader principles of sustainability. “The idea is to bring more thoughtfulness and social value to our events while curbing extravagance,” an official said.

The initiative has generally been welcomed as a progressive measure, though organisers of college-level programmes acknowledge that it will take some time to adjust to the revised protocol. With the new directive now in force, Delhi University aims to set an example for institutions across the country in promoting responsible and socially conscious event practices.