Issue
Himachal Pradesh government is planning to come up with a policy to allow controlled cultivation of cannabis in the state.
Details
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The state government is planning to legalise commercial cultivation of the species for non-recreational uses such as fabrics and medicinal purposes.
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Indian government has banned the growing of cannabis plant under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act.
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The government has powers to allow controlled and regulated cultivation for obtaining its fibre and seed for industrial and horticultural reasons.
Uses of Cannabis
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In different regions of Himachal Pradesh, cannabis have traditionally been used for making footwear, ropes, mats, food items, etc.
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Seeds from the plants can also be used for making paint, ink and biofuel.
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Products from cannabis are increasingly being used for health and medicinal purpose.
Reason for legalisation
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Proponents have been demanding legalising cannabis cultivation in order to strengthen the state’s economy, which has been ravaged by Covid-19 pandemic.
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The government also plans to generate employment and become economically self-reliant by promoting its cultivation.
Misuse of cannabis
Cannabis contains chemicals that act as intoxicants. The leaves and flowers are dried and used for recreational purpose.
Legalised states
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Uttarakhand is the first state that had legalised cultivation of cannabis in 2018. However, it had allowed only those species that have a low concentration of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).
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Uttar Pradesh has also adopted a similar method. Madhya Pradesh and Manipur are also planning to adopt similar policy.