Officials have been directed to prepare the rules and manuals for facilitating the cultivation of industrial hemp (Bhang) for commercial purpose in the State. Chief Minister Harish Rawat said that the horticulture department should develop seeds of hemp containing the psychoactive ingredient Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) within the permissible limits.
Two seed farms should be developed as part of a pilot project for this purpose. The CM said this while chairing a review meeting with officials of horticulture, revenue and other related departments here on Friday.
It was stated that the fibres of bhang cultivated in the climate of Himalaya region are known to be of very good quality. To develop the seeds of hemp containing THC within the permissible limit various departments and institutions should also be involved with coordinated effort to achieve the target.
A major change can be brought about the status of rural economy if commercial hemp seeds can be developed here, said Rawat.