The Himachal Pradesh government is considering legalizing cannabis (hemp) cultivation in the state, potentially providing an economic boost.
A committee, including lawmakers, recommended the cultivation of cannabis for non-narcotic purposes, such as medicinal, industrial, and scientific use.
Social Concerns:
There are concerns about the impact on adolescents and youth, potential abuse, a strengthening nexus between illegal producers and suppliers, pilferage risks, and the occurrence of amotivational syndrome.
Hemp Definition:
Hemp refers to specific Cannabis sativa cultivars grown for industrial or medicinal purposes.
Its cultivation is currently illegal under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985.
The state cabinet's approval is pending, after which a policy for cannabis cultivation will be framed, considering the provisions of the NDPS Act, 1985, and NDPS Rules, 1989.
Revenue Generation:
The government aims to use the policy to tap into the medicinal properties of cannabis for patient treatment and generate revenue through hemp-based products.
Support for Farmers:
Legalizing cannabis cultivation is seen as supporting farmers who have long demanded the ban on cultivation to be lifted.
The NDPS Act prohibits the extraction of resin and flowers from the cannabis plant.
However, it allows states to make rules for cannabis cultivation, production, possession, transport, and use for specific purposes.
In 2017, Uttarakhand became the first state in India to legalize cannabis cultivation.
Concerns Raised:
A study noted that approximately 95% of drug addicts in Himachal Pradesh use cannabis and its byproducts.
Concerns include potential addiction among youth and a nexus between illegal producers, suppliers, and politicians.
Psychiatric Effects:
Cannabis use is known to cause psychiatric symptoms, including temporary and potentially permanent effects, as well as amotivational syndrome.
Support for Legalization:
Some argue that the war on drugs has led to the creation of a dangerous drug mafia and human rights violations, making legalization a more practical approach.
Cannabis has multiple uses, including phytoremediation, fiber-cloth manufacturing, medicinal applications, and use in the pulp and paper industry.
Despite its recreational use as 'charas' and 'ganja,' proponents highlight the positive aspects of this versatile plant.
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