Barren Land in Uttarakhand and Industrial Hemp
- Pranav Vasishtha and Pavitra Joshi
- Jul 22, 2024
- 3 min read
Updated: Jul 22, 2024
Hemp, also known as Cannabis Sativa, has a long and diverse history that spans centuries due to its versatility and sustainability. Despite the common association with marijuana, hemp is poised to make a comeback as a significant player in the search for eco-friendly industrial solutions and sustainable agricultural practices. Especially in Uttarakhand, India, it presents a promising solution for barren lands due to its adaptability and environmental benefits. This article delves into the situation of barren lands in Uttarakhand, the environmental advantages of hemp, its potential as a cornerstone of sustainable agriculture, and its wide range of products.

Uttarakhand - Mountains sans Mountain People
The mountain districts of Uttarakhand are witnessing a decrease in agricultural activities due to factors such as migration, lack of irrigation, human-wildlife conflicts, complex geographical conditions, and frequent natural disasters. A report from the Scroll has reported that as per 2011 Census, there were 1,048 ghost villages – that is, villages with no population – in Uttarakhand. Since then, this number is estimated to have reached close to 2,000.
As per Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY) report, In 2013-14, the net sown area in the state was 77,600 hectares (14.5% of the total). The gross cropped area reached 1.36 lakh hectares, with a cropping intensity of 0.64 percent. Land distribution in Uttarakhand is characterized by scattered, fragmented, and inequitable patterns. The majority of individual holdings are very small, with over 70 percent classified as marginal (up to 1.00 hectare). The average landholding size in Uttarakhand stands at just 0.93 hectares, lower than the national average of 1.3 hectares. The state has a total of 890,667 holdings across all categories, with marginal and small holdings comprising 88.3 percent. Despite this, these holdings collectively manage only 463,236 hectares out of the total operated land of 843,451 hectares.
The underutilization of farmland in Uttarakhand is mainly due to high rates of migration. The state government is looking into new agricultural options, such as promoting 'Industrial Hemp' cultivation, to discourage migration and boost rural incomes. Tailored irrigation strategies are needed to maximize crop yields in saline conditions. The decision to promote hemp cultivation in Uttarakhand is well-founded due to several reasons. Hemp is a natural vegetation of the region, thriving in the conducive soil and climate. It helps in restoring the area's natural ecosystem and revitalizing the soil, making it suitable for other crops. Hemp is resilient to soil degradation and offers diverse applications, paving the way for the development of hemp-based agro-industries and transforming Uttarakhand's economy.
Hemp - A Sustainable Solution: Why?

Carbon sequestration: Hemp absorbs carbon dioxide, serving as an effective carbon sink, capable of absorbing 15 tons of CO2 per hectare.
Soil regeneration: Hemp's deep roots improve soil structure, prevent erosion, and retain water, thriving in alkali and saline soil.
Reduced pesticide usage: Hemp's natural resistance reduces the need for chemical pesticides, minimizing environmental impact.
Decreased water pollution: Hemp's pest resistance prevents harmful chemicals from entering water bodies, averting pollution.
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