Uttarakhand’s Early Lead in Industrial Hemp: A Wasted Opportunity?
Uttarakhand became the first state in India to legalize industrial hemp cultivation in 2015, allowing crops with THC levels of 0.3% or less. However, progress has been slow. The first license was issued only in June 2018, and despite over 25 farmers now holding licenses, legal uncertainties regarding seed imports have stalled large-scale cultivation.
Meanwhile, other states are beginning to take action, particularly Himachal Pradesh, which recently legalized controlled cannabis cultivation for industrial and medicinal use. If Uttarakhand does not act swiftly, it risks losing its pioneering advantage to these emerging competitors.
Himachal Pradesh Joins the Industrial Hemp Market
Recognizing the economic and environmental benefits of industrial hemp, Himachal Pradesh has taken significant legislative steps:
In September 2024, the state assembly passed a resolution amending the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, allowing controlled cannabis cultivation for industrial and medicinal purposes.
In January 2025, the government approved a pilot study to explore industrial hemp’s potential, focusing on suitable cannabis strains and best cultivation practices.
These proactive steps indicate that Himachal Pradesh is serious about developing a structured hemp industry—and if successful, it could attract investments and businesses that might otherwise have set up in Uttarakhand.
What Uttarakhand Must Do to Maintain Its Leadership
For Uttarakhand to secure its position as a leader in industrial hemp cultivation, the state must take immediate action:
Develop a Seed Bank with Research Institutions
Collaborate with Pantnagar University and Bharsar University to create a regional industrial hemp seed bank.
Avoid relying solely on private players, which could lead to monopolization and regulatory issues.
Push for Policy Clarity and Federal Support
Send a ministerial delegation to the central government to advocate for clearer hemp seed import laws and expanded cultivation regulations.
Work towards long-term industrial hemp policies to provide stability for farmers and investors.
Secure a Temporary Exclusive Cultivation Right for Mountain States
Advocate for a 10-year exclusivity period for mountain states like Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh before large agricultural states (UP, Bihar, MP) are allowed to enter the market.
This would help protect Uttarakhand’s fragile mountain economy while building a strong foundation for the hemp industry.
Launch a Farmer Awareness and Development Program
Train farmers in best practices for hemp cultivation, including genetics identification and sustainable farming techniques.
Work with agricultural scientists to develop high-yielding hemp breeds suited to Uttarakhand’s diverse terrain.
A Political and Economic Imperative
This is a critical moment for the incumbent Chief Minister of Uttarakhand. With Himachal Pradesh now actively promoting industrial hemp, Uttarakhand must move quickly to avoid losing investors, industries, and farmers to its neighboring state.
To achieve this, the government should establish a dedicated task force involving experts from:
Agriculture & Horticulture Departments
AYUSH & Herbal Medicine Departments
Revenue & Land Use Authorities
Water & Irrigation Boards
With the right policies in place, Uttarakhand can solidify its position as India’s industrial hemp leader, ensuring long-term economic benefits from textiles, medicine, fiber, and construction industries.
However, time is running out. If Uttarakhand does not act now, it will soon find itself losing its first-mover advantage to states that are quicker to recognize industrial hemp’s potential.
https://www.kumaonkhand.com/post/barren-lands-in-uttarakhand-and-industrial-hemp
