Introduction: Why Indians Confuse Hemp and Bhang

In India, hemp and bhang are often used interchangeably in casual conversations, but are they really the same? The short answer: No!

While both are derived from the Cannabis sativa plant, their uses, legality, psychoactive effects, and cultural context differ significantly. Understanding these differences is vital—not just for curious minds but for entrepreneurs, researchers, and policymakers alike.

Let’s unravel the cultural, legal, and industrial differences between hemp and bhang through an Indian lens.

What is Hemp?

Hemp is the non-psychoactive variety of Cannabis sativa, cultivated mainly for industrial and nutritional uses. It contains less than 0.3% THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), which means it cannot get you high.

Uses of Hemp:

• Hemp seeds for nutrition

• Hemp fibers for textiles and rope

• Hemp oil for skincare and wellness

• Hemp leaves for Ayurveda

Popular Indian Hemp Products:

• Hemp seed powder

• Hemp protein bars

• Hemp seed oil

• Hemp-based apparel

What is Bhang?

Bhang, on the other hand, is a psychoactive preparation made from the leaves of the cannabis plant, traditionally used in Indian religious festivals like Holi and Shivratri.

It contains higher levels of THC, which is responsible for the intoxicating effects. Often, it’s mixed in milk or thandai during spiritual or celebratory occasions.

Historical and Cultural Significance in India

Hemp in Ancient Indian Texts

• References to hemp appear in Atharvaveda as one of the five sacred plants.

• Ayurveda has used hemp (referred to as Vijaya) in controlled dosages for treating ailments like pain, epilepsy, and digestive disorders.

Bhang in Festivals like Holi and Mahashivratri

• Bhang is deeply rooted in Hindu tradition, believed to be consumed by Lord Shiva.

• Bhang lassi and thandai are popular during Holi to invoke joy and spiritual euphoria.

Legal Status in India

Hemp Cultivation & Government Policies

• Legal in Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and Himachal Pradesh under state policies.

• Regulated to ensure THC levels remain below 0.3%.

• Government supports it under the National Policy on Narcotic Drugs & Psychotropic Substances (2014).

Narcotic Control & Bhang Regulation

• Bhang is legal under Indian law because it’s made from the leaves and not the flowering tops.

• Controlled under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act (1985).

• No industrial cultivation allowed for recreational cannabis in India.

Biological & Chemical Differences

Uses of Hemp in India

• Nutrition: Rich in Omega-3, Omega-6, and protein

• Textiles: Durable, sustainable clothing and bags

• Paper: Alternative to deforestation

• Wellness: Anxiety-relief oils, balms

Uses of Bhang in Indian Culture

• Festivals: Holi, Shivratri

• Religious Offerings: Temples in Varanasi and Mathura

• Traditional Medicine: Occasionally used in Ayurvedic practices

Hemp Industry Products vs Bhang Products

Hemp Products:

• Hemp protein powder

• Hemp-infused skincare

• Biodegradable textiles

• Hempcrete for eco-building

Bhang Products:

• Bhang thandai

• Bhang lassi

• Herbal Ayurvedic concoctions (with strict dosage)

Health Benefits: Myth vs Fact

Claim	Fact
Hemp will make you high	False. Hemp is non-psychoactive
Bhang cures diseases	Partially True. Needs regulation and dosage control
Hemp is just for hippies	False. It’s used in industries, nutrition, and medicine
Bhang is illegal	False. Bhang is legal in many states for religious use

Compliance & Licensing in India

• Hemp: Must be cultivated under license from respective state governments.

• Bhang: Typically distributed through government-authorized shops.

• No private recreational cannabis sales allowed under Indian law.

Market Trends: Hemp & Cannabis Industry in India

• India’s hemp industry projected to reach INR 500 crore+ by 2030.

• Rising use in personal care, plant-based nutrition, and green construction.

• Startups and MSMEs like Indian Hempstore are collaborating with government and educational bodies to promote regulated growth.

Common Misconceptions Among Indian Consumers

1. “Hemp and bhang are the same” – False!

2. “All cannabis is illegal in India” – Not entirely.

3. “Bhang is dangerous” – Not if taken responsibly in a regulated manner.

Future of Hemp and Bhang in India

• Hemp is gaining traction as an eco-friendly crop that could revolutionize Indian agriculture and textile.

• Bhang, if researched and regulated, could become part of mainstream Ayurvedic medicine.

FAQs

1. Is hemp legal in India?

Yes, industrial hemp cultivation is legal in states like Uttarakhand and UP under regulated THC limits.

2. Can bhang get you high?

Yes, bhang contains THC and has psychoactive effects.

3. Is bhang a drug under Indian law?

Bhang made from leaves is not classified as a narcotic, unlike ganja or charas.

4. Can hemp seeds be eaten safely?

Absolutely. Hemp seeds are rich in nutrients and do not cause a high.

5. Are hemp and bhang used in Ayurveda?

Yes, both are used in Ayurvedic practices under strict dosage and formulation control.

6. Can I start a hemp business in India?

Yes, but you’ll need proper licenses from the state government and must follow NDPS compliance.

Conclusion

The confusion between hemp vs bhang stems from a shared ancestry—Cannabis sativa. But understanding their differences can reshape the future of wellness, industry, and agriculture in India. Whether you’re a consumer, investor, or enthusiast, the hemp revolution is here—and it’s rooted in Indian tradition.

Recommended External Resource:
Ministry of AYUSH – Ayurveda and Cannabis Guidelines

The post Hemp vs Bhang: 7 Shocking Differences Every Indian Must Know! appeared first on Indianhempstore.com.

The picturesque landscape of Dehradun, nestled in the lap of the Himalayas, became the epicenter of global economic dialogue as it hosted the two-day long Global Investors Summit on December 8th and 9th, 2023. This summit, a convergence of business delegations, corporate leaders, academia, innovators, and government officials from around the world, served as a catalyst for exploring new business horizons and fostering partnerships in the promising state of Uttarakhand.

Showcasing Uttarakhand’s Investor-Friendly Environment:

The Uttarakhand Government took the stage to present its 15+ investor-friendly sectoral policies, highlighting good governance initiatives, an enabling regulatory environment, and sustainable practices.

The summit aimed to attract over 5,000 delegates, both national and international, eager to tap into the burgeoning opportunities that Uttarakhand has to offer.

Bridging Connections: B2B and G2B Meetings:

To facilitate informed decision-making, the summit hosted Business-to-Business (B2B) and Government-to-Business (G2B) meetings. These sessions provided a unique platform for investors to engage directly with government representatives and industry leaders, fostering collaboration and strengthening the foundation for future investments.

Innovations on Display:

The summit wasn’t just a forum for discussions; it was a vibrant marketplace of ideas and innovations. Private and public organizations seized the opportunity to showcase cutting-edge technologies, innovations, and future trends. With a focus on sectoral sessions, the summit fostered genuine and comprehensive discussions on industry challenges and opportunities.

Distinguished Inauguration and Closure:

The summit began with the honorable Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi, inaugurating the event, setting the tone for a forward-looking economic dialogue. The closure was equally momentous, with the presence of the Honourable Home Minister, Shri Amit Shah, marking the end of an eventful two days.

A Star-Studded Presence:

The summit saw the attendance of key figures, including Chief Minister Pushkar Dhami, Cabinet Minister Shri Satpal Maharaj Ji, and prominent industrialists such as Sajjan Jaindal (Chairman, Jindal Group), Pranav Adani (Director, Adani Group), Sanjiv Puri (ITC Chairman), and Baba Ramdev (Patanjali Group), among others. Their presence underscored the significance of the summit in the global business landscape.

Economic Times Reports: A Resounding Success:

As reported by the Economic Times, the summit garnered investment proposals exceeding 3.5 lakh crore, with agreements worth 44 thousand crore already grounded. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s call for a “Wed in India” movement, urging affluent Indians to choose Uttarakhand for destination weddings, added a unique touch to the economic discussions.

Indian Hempstore Shines:

Among the shining stars of the summit was the Indian Hempstore, a startup making waves in the industrial sector. Siddharth Gupta , Founder & CEO of Indian Hemp Store C/O Myna Hemp Store Private Limited. Featured as a speaker, exhibitor, and delegate, they were among the top three startups chosen to showcase the industrial impact and attract investors.

The startup not only exhibited products under MSME but also played a pivotal role in showcasing the potential of hemp in various industrial products.

Siddharth is bridging the gap between industries-people & government, making every step to make industrial hemp recognized, recently Indian Hemp Store raised his second funding from IIT Ropar, I Hub Awadh Punjab. Making it as first Aggregator platform to raise investments in hemp Industry

Global Recognition:

The Indian Hempstore’s highlight came when they were featured in the main video of Invest in Uttarakhand and Startup Uttarakhand, presented to none other than Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, and other business leaders. This global recognition underlines the significance of their work on an international stage.

In conclusion, the Global Investors Summit in Dehradun was not just an event; it was a platform that united global leaders, visionaries, and innovators with the common goal of unlocking the immense potential that Uttarakhand holds. The summit’s success serves as a testament to the state’s commitment to fostering a conducive environment for investment and innovation, propelling Uttarakhand onto the global economic stage.

The post Global Investors Summit 2023: Key Insights, Success Stories, and the Emergence of Hemp Industry in Uttarakhand appeared first on Indianhempstore.com.