Himachal Pradesh is taking a significant step towards legalizing cannabis cultivation for scientific, industrial, and medicinal use. The state assembly has approved a report recommending controlled cultivation of the plant, a move that could bring in substantial revenue and provide much-needed relief for the state’s strained finances.
The report, tabled by Revenue Minister Jagat Singh Negi, follows months of deliberation and public consultation. In previous sessions, both the government and the opposition expressed support for legalizing cannabis cultivation, leading to the formation of a committee to study the matter. This committee, chaired by Negi, included scientists, horticulture experts, and representatives from various political parties.
The committee’s extensive research included visits to other states and union territories where controlled cannabis cultivation is already permitted, such as Uttarakhand, Madhya Pradesh, and Jammu & Kashmir. They also held public meetings with representatives from gram panchayats in key districts like Chamba, Kangra, Kullu, Mandi, Sirmaur, and Solan, gathering valuable feedback from local communities.
The committee’s recommendations go beyond simply legalizing cultivation. They advocate for amending the state’s NDPS (Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances) rules to establish a framework for controlling and regulating cannabis cultivation. Additionally, the Department of Agriculture, experts, and universities are tasked with developing seed banks for cannabis cultivation, ensuring the quality and sustainability of the industry.
The potential economic benefits of this move are significant. Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukku has projected that legalized cannabis cultivation could generate an annual revenue of up to ₹2,000 crore. This revenue stream is expected to provide much-needed financial relief for the state, which has been facing budgetary constraints and delays in salary payments to government employees.
While the committee’s study focused on legalizing cannabis for medicinal, scientific, and industrial purposes, the cultivation of charas (hashish) remains excluded. This move reflects a growing trend across the globe, with several countries recognizing the potential of cannabis for various applications, including medical treatments, industrial materials, and even environmental benefits.
Himachal Pradesh’s decision to legalize cannabis cultivation represents a bold step towards embracing a new industry with potential for economic growth and innovation. The state’s commitment to responsible cultivation and regulation is crucial for ensuring the success of this initiative and setting a positive example for other regions considering similar measures.
