In a landmark decision, the Himachal Pradesh cabinet has approved the controlled cultivation of cannabis for industrial, scientific, and medicinal purposes. The move, based on a comprehensive committee report, sets the stage for legalizing cannabis cultivation under stringent regulations to ensure safety and compliance. The report, endorsed earlier by the Himachal Pradesh Vidhan Sabha, was a collaborative effort involving horticulture experts, scientists, and members from both ruling and opposition parties, including the BJP. This initiative aims to harness the potential of cannabis for economic, medicinal, and environmental benefits while curbing illegal activities associated with the plant.
A Collaborative Effort to Promote Sustainable Cultivation
The controlled cultivation will be a joint effort led by two premier agricultural universities in Himachal Pradesh: Chaudhary Sarwan Kumar Krishi Vishvavidyalaya, Palampur and Dr. YS Parmar University of Horticulture, Nauni, Solan
The state’s Agriculture Department has been designated as the nodal body to oversee the project, which will be closely monitored by the Excise and Taxation Department and law enforcement agencies. Agriculture Minister Chander Kumar highlighted the cautious and regulated approach: “We will cultivate cannabis with minimal intoxicating properties for medicinal purposes, similar to practices in Uttarakhand, Madhya Pradesh, and Jammu and Kashmir. The cultivation will comply with Sections 10 and 14 of the NDPS Act, 1985, and Rule 29 of the Himachal Pradesh NDPS Rules, 1989.”
Under the plan, agricultural universities will initially develop seeds with low narcotic potential. New cultivation sites will be identified, and the Agriculture Department will collaborate with research experts to create seed banks and provide training. Revenue Minister Jagat Singh Negi, who chaired the committee formed on April 26, 2023, stated that the initiative includes: Developing a licensing and enforcement framework. Amending Himachal Pradesh NDPS Rules to regulate cultivation, production, transport, and interstate movement. Conducting public consultations across districts such as Chamba, Kangra, Kullu, Mandi, Sirmaur, and Solan.
While the initiative has received broad support, it has also raised concerns. OP Sharma, a former Narcotics Control Bureau officer, warned of potential pitfalls: “Organized drug mafias and illegal cannabis oil extraction are rampant. The government must eliminate these networks and ensure vigilance regarding firms interested in controlled cultivation.” Sharma pointed to Uttarakhand’s experience, where cannabis cultivation was legalized but has yet to yield significant results. He emphasized the need for meticulous planning to prevent misuse and ensure transparency in the licensing process.
Economic and Environmental Benefits
Himachal Pradesh’s climate and topography make it ideal for cannabis cultivation. Wild cannabis grows abundantly in many districts but is destroyed due to its narcotic potential. The committee’s report highlighted that regulated cultivation could turn this untapped resource into a valuable economic asset, benefiting farmers and the state. Additionally, hemp farming offers significant environmental advantages like Minimal use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides and Reduced carbon footprint due to the plant’s natural resilience.
The report also noted the global demand for hemp-based products, which range from textiles and paper to biofuel and construction materials. The committee consulted gram panchayats across Himachal Pradesh to gauge public sentiment. The response was overwhelmingly positive, with residents supporting cannabis cultivation under strict controls. As part of the next steps, the state will Finalise amendments to existing laws, develop seed banks in collaboration with agricultural universities and train specialised staff for enforcement and monitoring.
Himachal Pradesh’s decision mirrors the success of states like Uttarakhand, which became the first in India to legalize industrial hemp cultivation. By implementing robust regulations and leveraging its natural advantages, Himachal aims to strike a balance between economic growth and social responsibility. As the state embarks on this transformative journey, it remains committed to ensuring that cannabis cultivation benefits farmers, industries, and the environment while addressing concerns over illegal activities. This decision marks a significant step forward, not just for Himachal Pradesh, but for India’s growing acceptance of cannabis as a legitimate and valuable resource.