Biplab Deb’s push for cannabis-free Tripura triggers exodus of farmers, they call for legalisation

Tripura came to be infamously known as the cannabis corridor of Northeast for the heavy bulk of the illegal ‘herb’
The Indian Express (India)
Friday, August 24, 2018

Over the years, better processing systems, well-planned smuggling routes and a bigger corridor from Assam to Bangladesh helped fuel a parallel cannabis economy in Tripura. But after a series of stringent actions from the state government, cannabis growers now face severe livelihood crisis, triggering an exodus of people leaving the state in search of jobs. With no alternative livelihood option available now, the locals are coming up with their own solutions. “Why doesn’t the government legalize cannabis and end this debate? Alcohol too is equally bad but is sold in licensed shops,” said a Sonamura resident.