Is cannabis legal in India?

Under the NDPS Act, ganja (flowering/fruiting tops) and charas (resin) are prohibited, with strict penalties. Seeds and leaves not accompanied by tops are excluded from the NDPS definition, but bhang may be regulated by state excise laws.

Can I legally buy or use bhang?

Bhang (from leaves/seeds) is outside the NDPS definition but can be controlled by state excise rules. Availability, licensing, and festival-related allowances vary by state; verify on your state’s official excise portal.

Are hemp seed foods legal?

Yes, as foods under FSSAI standards (licensing, labeling, and THC specifications apply). This does not legalize cannabis/ganja/charas products.

Can I travel with cannabis within India or internationally?

Do not transport cannabis across international borders and do not carry prohibited substances domestically. Always verify local enforcement and official guidance.

India: Cannabis Laws (Federal NDPS, State Excise, Hemp Seed Foods)

Last updated: October 14, 2025

Legal notice: This page is informational only and not legal advice. Laws change and vary by jurisdiction. Always verify on the official government links below and follow the strictest applicable rule. See our Legal Disclaimer & No-Warranty and Terms of Use.

Federal Overview (NDPS Act, 1985)

India’s central law is the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985 (NDPS). Under NDPS, cannabis/charas/ganja are tightly controlled. Key definitions (paraphrased—see official text):

“Ganja” = flowering/fruiting tops (excluding seeds and leaves when not accompanied by the tops).
“Charas” = separated resin (incl. hashish).
“Cannabis (plant)” = any plant of the genus cannabis.

➡️ Implication: Possession, cultivation, production, sale, purchase, transport, and use of ganja/charas are generally prohibited under NDPS (subject to limited, licensed exceptions under central rules). Seeds & leaves without tops are not within the NDPS definition of “cannabis” (see official text), but state excise laws may still regulate bhang (preparations from leaves/seeds).

Official text: NDPS Act via Legislative Department and IndiaCode (see Sources).

State & Union Territory Variance (Excise/Bhang)

While NDPS is central, bhang (leaves/seeds preparations) often falls under state excise frameworks. Some states regulate or restrict bhang sales/consumption via excise acts/notifications; others may prohibit. Always check your state’s excise department rules and notifications.

Example (illustrative): Assam historically addressed ganja/bhang via a dedicated prohibition statute (see Sources). Other states have distinct excise rules and licensing practices; verify locally before purchase or consumption.

Hemp Seed Foods (FSSAI)

Hemp seeds, seed oil, and seed flour can be sold as foods in India subject to FSSAI standards and labeling/THC limits under the Food Safety and Standards regulations. Businesses must hold valid FSSAI licenses and comply with specifications. See the FSSAI notifications/clarifications in Sources.

Travel & Transport: Do not transport cannabis across international borders. For safety practices and impairment cautions, see our Responsible Use Guide.

Quick Orientation

NDPS (central): Prohibits ganja/charas; strict penalties apply.
Bhang: Not included in NDPS definition of “cannabis” (seeds/leaves when not with tops), but state excise may regulate/limit.
Hemp seed foods: Allowed under FSSAI rules with conditions; not a license to sell cannabis/ganja/charas.

Keep Current & Verify

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Global context: Cannabis Laws by Country & Region.

Cannabis Laws in India (NDPS Act, State Excise, and Hemp Seed Foods)