Gandaki legalizes cannabis cultivation for medicinal and industrial purposes under strict regulations

Pokhara: Cannabis cultivation for medicinal and industrial purposes has been legalized in Gandaki Province after the provincial assembly unanimously passed the related bill on Thursday, paving the way for regulated cultivation in the province.

According to the bill, cannabis cultivation will be permitted only after registering a company and obtaining approval from the government. The license will remain valid for five years, and cultivation will be allowed only in specific areas designated by the provincial government.

Individuals or organizations seeking permission for cultivation must submit ownership documents of their land or a lease agreement of at least five years, a recommendation from the local level, and an agreement with a pharmaceutical or industrial company that will purchase the produced cannabis. The final license will be issued only after ensuring the security of the cultivation area.

The bill has set a provision that cannabis produced for industrial purposes must contain no more than 0.3 percent tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). The product must undergo laboratory testing before it is sold or used.

The bill also states that cultivation, sale or transportation of cannabis without permission or in violation of prescribed conditions will result in action under the prevailing narcotics laws.

In addition, the legislation includes provisions for the provincial government to establish regulatory mechanisms and rehabilitation centers to control cannabis abuse.