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ProhibitedAsia

India

Medical cannabis is prohibited in India. Severe criminal penalties may apply for possession, use, or trafficking.

Cannabis (ganja and hashish) is prohibited under India’s NDPS Act of 1985, though bhang (derived from leaves) occupies a legal gray area in many states. Uttarakhand legalized hemp cultivation in 2018, and several states are exploring medical cannabis policies, but no national medical program exists.

Ask the Expert about India
Regulator
Narcotics Control Bureau
Key Legislation
Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985
Year Legalized
N/A
Program Size
Prohibited nationally; some state-lev...

Key Facts

  • The NDPS Act 1985 prohibits cannabis resin and flowers but exempts leaves and seeds
  • Bhang (cannabis leaf preparation) is legally sold in government shops in several states
  • Uttarakhand became the first state to legalize industrial hemp cultivation in 2018
  • Several Indian startups operate in the CBD/hemp space under state-level licenses
  • The Ayurvedic medicine tradition includes historical cannabis use, creating cultural complexity

Key Legislation

Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985 (NDPS Act)

Regulatory Body

Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB)

Country Info
ISO Code
IN
Region
Asia
Tier
Tier 4 — Prohibited
Status
Prohibited
Sources
NCB India
Disclaimer: This information is for general reference only and does not constitute legal advice. Cannabis regulations change frequently. Always verify with official sources and local legal counsel before making compliance decisions.