Shimla, June 20 -- Himachal Pradesh's decision to allow regulated cannabis cultivation could emerge as a major source of income for farmers while opening new opportunities in the textile, cosmetic and pharmaceutical sectors, state minister Jagat Singh Negi said on Saturday.

Minister says industrial hemp and medicinal cannabis cultivation will be strictly regulated, generate higher farmer incomes, and create opportunities in textiles, cosmetics and pharmaceuticals.

Speaking with ANI, Negi said the state Cabinet had taken an "important and visionary decision" after extensive consultations and field studies within and outside Himachal Pradesh.

"The Cabinet has taken a very significant decision regarding cannabis cultivation. There were co...