At Blily.in, we’re passionate about sustainability — and it all starts from the source. One of the most powerful, earth-friendly materials we use is Hemp. But what exactly is hemp, and why is it creating a green revolution in Indian agriculture? Let’s explore how Hemp farming in India is shaping a better tomorrow, for farmers, for nature — and for fashion.

Hemp (Cannabis Sativa) is often misunderstood as marijuana, but in reality, it is a non-psychoactive industrial crop with less than 0.3% THC, which means it doesn’t cause any intoxicating effects. Globally, it is known as a super crop because of its multiple uses and environment-friendly nature.

Products made from hemp include: Textiles and clothing, Bioplastics, Construction material (like hempcrete), Paper and packaging, Health supplements, Hemp seed oil, Organic skincare, Animal feed.

Hemp Cultivation Process in India

Hemp cultivation in India is gradually emerging as a sustainable and eco-friendly agricultural practice, especially in regions with favorable climates such as Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, and parts of the North-East. Hemp, a fast-growing plant that requires minimal water, chemical fertilizers, or pesticides, is ideal for Indian farmers looking for an organic and low-maintenance crop. The cultivation process begins with selecting high-quality, government-approved hemp seeds that contain less than 0.3% THC (making them legal under industrial hemp laws). These seeds are typically sown during spring, in well-drained, nutrient-rich soil with good sunlight and a pH level between 6.0 and 7.5. Hemp doesn’t demand heavy irrigation; after initial watering for germination, the plant survives well on natural rainfall or minimal irrigation. Its dense canopy suppresses weed growth, and its natural resistance to pests means farmers rarely need to use harmful chemicals. Within 90 to 120 days, the crop is ready to harvest—fiber varieties are harvested slightly earlier, while seed varieties are harvested once the seeds mature. Post-harvest, the stalks go through a retting process to separate the fibers, which are then processed into textiles, ropes, bioplastics, and more. With proper government licensing and increasing awareness, hemp farming in India holds immense potential not only for boosting rural incomes but also for promoting environmentally conscious agriculture.

Step-by-Step Hemp Cultivation Process:

1. Seed Selection

   • Choose certified, high-quality hemp seeds suited to Indian climatic conditions.

   • Low-THC (below 0.3%) seed varieties are required by Indian law.

2. Land Preparation

   • Hemp grows best in well-drained, sandy loam soil with good sunlight.

   • The land is ploughed and leveled before sowing.

3. Sowing

   • Ideal sowing time: March to May (varies slightly by region).

   • Seeds are sown directly into the field at a shallow depth.

4. Irrigation

   • Hemp is drought-resistant and needs minimal water.

   • Drip irrigation is recommended in dry regions for efficient water use.

5. Weed and Pest Management

   • Hemp naturally resists most pests, but manual weeding may be needed.

   • Use organic fertilizers and avoid chemical pesticides to keep it organic.

6. Harvesting

   • Harvest time is usually 90–120 days after sowing.

   • Fiber hemp is harvested when the plants begin flowering; seed hemp is harvested once seeds mature.

7. Post-Harvest Processing

   • After harvesting, the stalks are dried and processed for fiber extraction.

   • Seeds are cleaned and used for oil, food, or replanting.

Government Support & Legal Status:

• Hemp cultivation is legally permitted in some states like Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, and Madhya Pradesh under strict licensing.

• Policies are evolving, and more states are exploring legalization under industrial and medicinal use.

History of Hemp Farming in India

Hemp has been used in Ayurveda and ancient Indian scriptures for thousands of years. However, after the NDPS Act of 1985, hemp cultivation was largely restricted. Now, the Indian government is gradually reopening the doors for industrial hemp farming, especially for economic and environmental benefits.

Is Hemp Farming Legal in India?

Yes, but laws vary from state to state. Only low-THC industrial hemp (THC ≤ 0.3%) is allowed, and you must get a license from the state government before starting cultivation.

States Where Hemp Farming is Legal:
- Uttarakhand – The first state to legalize hemp farming.
- Madhya Pradesh – Approved hemp cultivation in 2023.
- Uttar Pradesh – Permitted in some regions.
- Himachal Pradesh – Allowed for research-based cultivation.
- Jammu & Kashmir – High potential for a hemp-based economy.

Note: Hemp farming without a valid license is illegal and can lead to legal action.

Hemp Farming License in India

In India, hemp farming is regulated by state governments and requires a special license to grow legally. As of now, states like Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, and Madhya Pradesh have introduced policies allowing farmers to cultivate industrial hemp with low THC content (below 0.3%). To get a license, farmers or businesses must apply through the respective state’s Agriculture or Excise Department, providing land details, seed source, and an agreement to follow guidelines regarding THC limits and crop usage. The government ensures strict monitoring to differentiate industrial hemp from psychoactive cannabis. With growing interest in sustainable farming and more states are expected to legalize and support hemp cultivation under proper regulation in the near future.

How to start hemp farming in India

1. Apply for Government License
Approach your State Agriculture Department or Horticulture Board for application and guidelines.

2. Choose Certified Seeds
Use low-THC certified hemp seeds. Popular varieties include: Futura 75, Felina 32, USO 31

3. Land Preparation
Hemp grows best in well-drained loamy or sandy loam soil with a pH level of 6–7.5.

4. Irrigation and Care
- Requires minimal water
- No need for heavy pesticides
- Crop matures in 90–120 days

5. Harvesting and Processing
- For fiber: Cut stalks when plant is mature
- For seeds: Harvest post-flowering
- For oil: Extract from seeds using cold-press techniques

Top hemp startups in India:

1. BOHECO (Bombay Hemp Company)

2. Hemp Horizons

3. HempStreet (Ayurvedic Products)

4. Tanac Organics PVT. LTD. ( www.blily.in )

Environmental Benefits of Hemp

1. Absorbs more CO₂ than trees
2. 100% biodegradable
3. Improves soil health (phytoremediation)
4. Helps reduce plastic and wood usage
5. Grows without harmful chemicals’

Hemp VS Cotton

Hemp: A Natural Powerhouse

1. Minimal Chemical Use
Hemp requires virtually no pesticides or chemical fertilizers to grow. It thrives naturally, making it an environmentally safe crop.
In contrast, cotton accounts for nearly 25% of all global agricultural chemicals used, posing serious harm to ecosystems.

2. Higher Fabric Yield
Hemp produces twice as much fabric per acre compared to cotton. This means you get more output using less land — a huge win for sustainable manufacturing.

3. Low Water Consumption
To produce 1 kg of fiber, hemp uses only 2,300 liters of water.
Cotton, on the other hand, needs a staggering 10,000 liters for the same output. This makes hemp a far more water-efficient choice.

4. Soil Rejuvenation
Hemp doesn’t just preserve soil — it actually cleans and nourishes it, making it an ideal crop for rotation farming.
In contrast, cotton farming often leads to soil degradation, as chemicals from cotton fields seep into the ground, damaging the soil and surrounding ecosystems.

Cotton: Widely Used but Environmentally Costly

1. Heavy Chemical Dependence
Cotton is known for its intense need for pesticides and fertilizers, making it one of the most chemically treated crops in the world.

2. High Land Requirement
To match hemp’s fiber production, cotton requires twice the amount of land — making it less space-efficient and more taxing on natural resources.

3. Massive Water Usage
Cotton farming is notoriously water-intensive, contributing to water scarcity in regions where it is grown extensively.

4. Soil & Ecosystem Harm
Runoff from cotton farms carries harmful chemicals that pollute the soil and nearby water bodies, making cotton cultivation damaging to biodiversity

Conclusion ( Why Hemp is smarter choice )

As the demand for organic clothes, eco-friendly textiles, and sustainable fashion rises, hemp proves to be a game-changer. It’s not just about fabric — it’s about farming that respects nature, saves water, protects the soil, and supports a greener future.

If you’re looking to invest in sustainable materials or build a brand that reflects environmental responsibility, hemp farming is the way forward.

Hemp Fabrics

Hemp fabrics are quickly becoming the future of sustainable fashion, thanks to their strength, breathability, and minimal environmental impact. Derived from the stalks of the hemp plant, this natural fiber is known for being one of the most durable and long-lasting textiles available today. Unlike traditional fabrics like cotton, hemp requires significantly less water, grows without the need for harmful pesticides, and actually enriches the soil it’s grown in — making it one of the most eco-friendly fibers in the world. Hemp fabric is naturally antibacterial, UV-resistant, and highly breathable, which makes it ideal for all climates, especially hot and humid ones like in many parts of India

Benefits of Hemp Fabric

• Eco-Friendly – Requires less water, no harmful pesticides, and improves soil health.

• Durable – Strong natural fibers that last longer than cotton.

• Breathable – Keeps you cool in summer and warm in winter.

• Antibacterial – Naturally resists bacteria and odors.

• UV-Resistant – Protects the skin from harmful UV rays.

Market Demand of Hemp in India

Industries Using Hemp:
- Textiles – Hemp denim, t-shirts, eco-bags
- Health and Wellness – Protein powders, seed oils
- Ayurvedic & Skincare Products – Organic oils, soaps, creams
- Construction – Hempcrete and insulation boards
- Bioplastics & Packaging – Sustainable product alternatives

Future of Hemp Farming in India

India’s climate and geographical diversity make it perfect for hemp cultivation. The global hemp market is expected to reach $18.6 billion by 2030. In India, hemp can revolutionize employment, exports, eco-friendly innovations, and rural economy growth.