Himachal Pradesh is set to become the third state in India to legalize the cultivation of cannabis (hemp) for industrial and medicinal purposes, following the footsteps of Uttarakhand and Madhya Pradesh. The state government’s decision is a significant step toward increasing farmers’ income and strengthening the state’s economic position.

Cannabis has versatile uses, including the production of textiles, bio-plastics, paper, and construction materials in the industrial sector, as well as pain relief and treatment of mental health disorders in the medicinal field. The government will issue licenses to farmers and allow cultivation only in designated areas.

This initiative is expected to create new employment opportunities and position Himachal Pradesh as a key player in the national and international markets for cannabis-based products. With strict monitoring and policies in place, the state aims to ensure the lawful use of cannabis for industrial and medicinal purposes only.