While the world celebrated India’s G20 presidency, Himachal Pradesh quietly considered a significant shift. A committee of lawmakers explored legalizing cannabis cultivation and recently recommended it for “non-narcotic use…for medicinal, industrial, and scientific use.”
The big question now is whether the state can effectively control its growth and prevent the banned drug from entering the market.
What is the Government Stand?
Interestingly, the government’s stance supports farmers. They believe allowing cannabis cultivation would honor their long-standing demands to lift the ban.
Proponents highlight hemp’s diverse applications, including phytoremediation, textile manufacturing, medicine, and the pulp and paper industry.
However, Himachal has long been known as the “Apple paradise.” Some argue that efforts should focus on boosting apple production for export through policy, financial, and operational support.
A State to Worry For
There’s concern that Himachal could follow a troubling path already seen in Punjab. Punjab struggled with a drug culture, partly stemming from the PTSD of the 1980s, pushing many young people into drug abuse. The state now has a visible network of drug rehabilitation centers.
With Bollywood and some pop stars previously glorifying drug culture, and Himachal’s proximity to Punjab, the fear is that it could become another source for illegal drugs.
Despite these concerns, the Himachal Pradesh government is moving towards legalizing hemp cultivation, making growers optimistic about an economic boost. Hemp, a specific type of Cannabis sativa, is grown for industrial or medicinal purposes.
Himachal and its History of Cannabis
Cannabis grows in parts of Himachal Pradesh, although it’s currently illegal under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985.
The NDPS Act bans the extraction of resin and flowers but allows states to regulate cannabis cultivation for medicinal and scientific purposes.
Section 10 (a) (iii) of the Act empowers states to create rules around the cultivation, production, possession, transport, use, purchase, sale, and consumption of cannabis (excluding charas).
States can permit hemp cultivation specifically for obtaining fiber, seeds, or for horticultural purposes.
Which State Legalized Cannabis First?
Uttarakhand was the first Indian state to legalize commercial hemp cultivation in 2018, followed by Uttar Pradesh. It’s estimated that about half of India’s 28 states are considering legalizing cannabis cultivation for industrial and medical uses.
What's Driving This Trend?
Globally, the cannabis industry is booming. After years of prohibition, governments are recognizing its medical and economic potential.
Countries Where It's Legal
Countries like Canada and South Africa have legalized cannabis for various uses, including recreational. Many Latin American nations and parts of Australia have decriminalized it, meaning use and limited possession aren’t prosecuted.
In the US, some states have legalized recreational use, while others have decriminalized it.
Indian entrepreneurs see significant opportunities and are working with states to update old laws.
Following the US model, states are allowing cannabis production with a maximum of 0.3% THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the main psychoactive compound. This controlled cultivation is for medicinal, scientific, and industrial purposes.
Is Wild Cannabis Common in India?
Yes, wild cannabis grows in India, but it usually has higher THC levels. Research is underway, including government partnerships, to develop hybrid varieties with consistently low THC levels, regardless of growing conditions.
Does Cannabis Have Medicinal Value?
Cannabis has a long history of medicinal use in India. Its calming properties are detailed in the Vedas and used in Ayurveda.
The Ministry of AYUSH allows licensed practitioners and medical doctors to prescribe cannabis extracts. However, the fruit and flower (ganja) remain illegal.
It’s important to note that cannabis is classified as a toxic substance, though medically significant, and should be administered in compounds with other elements.
Conclusion
There are valid social concerns about legalizing cannabis, particularly regarding youth access and potential abuse, the strengthening of illegal networks, the risk of theft, and the possibility of amotivational syndrome.
Young people already face considerable pressures. Easy access to cannabis could create new problems with severe consequences.
History shows how countries like Tibet and the USSR suffered from institutionalized drug abuse targeting their youth.
Jai Hind
Credits:
Major SPS Oberoi Academic Advisor
Ekam IAS Academy, Hyderabad
