Himachal Pradesh Government Moves to Legalise and Regulate Cannabis Cultivation for Medicinal Use
The Himachal Pradesh government is finalizing a policy to legalise and regulate cannabis cultivation, aiming to generate annual revenue of ₹1,000 crore to ₹2,000 crore. The policy focuses on the crop's medicinal value, particularly for pain management and anti-inflammatory applications, as well as industrial uses of hemp. Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu stated that this strategic shift aims to replace the narcotic image of hemp with a productive identity. The framework will include strict rules and regulations to prevent illegal trade while promoting a new economic avenue for the state.
Key Points
- Himachal Pradesh aims to generate up to ₹2,000 crore annually through legal and regulated cannabis cultivation.
- The policy focuses on medicinal applications like pain management and industrial use of hemp fiber.
- The move seeks to transition cannabis from an illegal drug trade association to a regulated medicinal crop.
- The State Cabinet is expected to approve the final policy framework within the next two months.
Exam Facts
- Projected annual revenue from legalised cannabis is between ₹1,000 crore and ₹2,000 crore.
- The policy specifically targets the valleys of Kullu, Mandi, and Chamba where cannabis grows wild.
Read it. Retain it. Recall it.
Get spaced-repetition flashcards, daily quizzes and offline access — free on Android.