News: To reshape Himachal Pradesh’s economy and achieve self-reliance by 2027, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Sukhu has launched the ‘Green to Gold’ initiative to legalise and regulate industrial hemp cultivation and position the state as a leader in the bio-economy.
About ‘Green to Gold’ initiative
- The ‘Green to Gold’ initiative has been launched by Himachal Pradesh Government to promote self-reliance and strengthen the state’s bio-economy by 2027.
- The initiative seeks to transform cannabis from a wild and illegally associated plant into a regulated and valuable industrial resource.
- The policy is described as a transition from “wild weed to Himalayan gold.”
- It aims to replace the association of cannabis with illicit drug trade by highlighting its medicinal and industrial applications.
- The initiative is intended to support sustainable rural growth, start-ups, and youth employment.
About Industrial Hemp
- Industrial hemp is a variety of the plantCannabis sativa.
- It is a non-intoxicating, multi-purpose crop with significant industrial, nutritional, and economic value.
- Uses of Industrial Hemp
- It contains less than 0.3% tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) content.
- It makes industrial hemp non-intoxicating and unsuitable for recreational drug use.
- The stalk of industrial hemp is used to produce biofuel, auto parts, paper, upholstery, and fibre for textiles.
- Hemp fibre is used in making cloth, yarns, fabrics, sail ropes, and canvas.
- The stem can be processed into construction materials and industrial-grade paper products.
- Hemp is also used in the manufacture of insulation materials and building reinforcements.
- It contains less than 0.3% tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) content.
- Uses of Hemp Seeds
- The seeds are a source of high-quality oil used in food, pharmaceutical, medical, and cosmetic industries.
- Hemp seed oil is commonly used in lotions, creams, and personal care products.
- Hemp seeds have a high protein content with a balanced amino acid profile.
- Hemp seed cake left after oil extraction is used as a protein-rich animal feed supplement.
- Environmental and Agricultural Benefits: Industrial hemp requires nearly 50 per cent less water than cotton.
- The crop can grow in marginal soils where traditional crops struggle.
- These qualities make hemp a climate-resilient and eco-friendly agricultural option.
- Industrial Hemp in Global Trade: Most industrial hemp products sold in the United States are currently imported.
- These imports come mainly from countries such as Canada, China, and several European nations.
