India’s cannabis policy reflects a reality that no longer exists. Millions of Indians consume cannabis, several states already regulate aspects of its cultivation and traditional use, and industrial hemp is emerging as a legitimate economic opportunity. Yet the legal framework has remained unchanged for more than four decades, despite developments in medical research and shifts in global policy and consumption patterns. The Delhi High Court’s decision to review key provisions of the Narcotics Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act NDPS may finally force policymakers to face the facts and abandon prohibition that does not work. The court has not called for blanket legalisation.
Instead, has directed the Union government to engage with medical experts, researchers, civil society, and other stakeholders before deciding whether India’s cannabis laws should be updated to better reflect new developments. That alone marks an important shift. The debate is moving beyond ideology and towards evidence, outcomes, and practical governance. The timing is signif icant . Government submissions before the court estimate that around 31 million Indians consumed cannabis products in the previous year. Yet authorities continue to report large-scale seizures across the country, highlighting the pitfalls of a complete ban.
