HISTORY OF नेपाल गाँजा बैधानिक महाअभियान

The legalization movement in Nepal started with the formation of the “#LegalizeNepal” campaign by Rajiv Kafle in 2011. A Initiative was taken by Cannabis Activist Rabins Dangi. This was followed by a pro-cannabis user group founded by Rhigendra Giri starting a legalization campaign in Pokhara in 2012. Many organizations, including Bishwo Hindu Yuba Sangh (बिश्व हिन्दु युवा संघ), joined the cause to support legalizing marijuana in Nepal. These organizations came together to form Nepal Ganja Baidhanik Mahaabhiyan (नेपाल गाँजा बैधानिक महाअभियान) in 2076. The goal of the movement is to legalize marijuana in Nepal and the organizations are working together to achieve this goal.

Currently there are more than 10 lakhs Nepalese from 77 districts and outside the country supporting for Legalizing Marijuana in Nepal.


On the 23rd of Jestha in the year 2078 BS, a group of 21 individuals gathered for an virtual conference to form a campaign focused on the legalization of cannabis in Nepal. The group consisted of 5 advisory members who would provide guidance and counsel to the campaign, as well as 16 members who would be actively involved in carrying out the campaign’s objectives. Joseph Madan Koirala was appointed as the National Co-ordinator of the campaign. The conference allowed the group to connect and collaborate despite being located in different parts of the country demonstrating the power of technology in facilitating meaningful discussions and actions. The formation of this group highlights the growing interest and support for the legalization of Cannabis in Nepal. The campaign was likely driven by the growing acceptance of marijuana as a medicinal plant with several health benefits, as well as the potential economic benefits of legalizing and regulating the sale and distribution of marijuana. Only time will tell whether this campaign will be successful in achieving its goals, but the formation of this group suggests that there was significant interest and support for the legalization of cannabis among a segment of the population in Nepal.

Those cannabis activists who formed the campaign for the legalization in Nepal were passionate about their cause and took various actions to raise awareness and generate support. One of their strategies was to use social media platforms to spread information and generate support for their campaign. They leveraged the power of social media to reach a wider audience and to disseminate information about the benefits of marijuana legalization. Additionally, the group organized on-site trainings in Dang to educate interested individuals on the cultivation and uses of industrial hemp, a variety of the cannabis plant that is used for industrial purposes such as paper, textiles, and building materials. This training helped to dispel myths and misconceptions about cannabis and to showcase its potential benefits. Furthermore, the group collected 10 lakhs signatures from individuals from all around the country who supported the legalization of cannabis in Nepal, demonstrating the widespread support for their cause. These campaigns and initiatives show the dedication and persistence of the activists who formed this group, and their efforts have the potential to bring about significant change in Hemp/ Cannabis/ Marijuana History in Nepal.

After forming the campaign for the legalization of marijuana in Nepal, the group of activists continued to expand their efforts by appointing a province head in each of the seven provinces in Nepal. These heads, along with the group’s five advisors and contributors, worked to organize and coordinate campaigns for the legalization of marijuana in their respective provinces. To further mobilize support, the heads of each province established district groups to engage with local communities and build a strong base of supporters. These district groups were instrumental in generating grassroots support and raising awareness about the benefits of marijuana legalization. By organizing at the provincial and district levels, the group of activists was able to reach a larger audience and make a greater impact in their campaign to legalize marijuana in Nepal. 

It is clear that the movement has gained significant momentum and has a growing number of supporters. The efforts of the activists who formed the campaign for legalization, including their awareness campaigns and collection of signatures, have contributed to an increase in public awareness and support for this cause.

In recent years, there have been numerous discussions about marijuana legalization in Nepal, both in the media and in political circles. Many politicians have spoken out in favor of legalization, citing the potential economic benefits and the need to reform drug policies. In fact, in 2021, a member of Nepal’s parliament proposed a bill to legalize marijuana for medical and industrial purposes. While the bill has not yet been passed, its introduction reflects the growing support for legalization among political leaders in Nepal.

Overall, it is clear that the movement to legalize marijuana in Nepal has gained significant support in recent years, and there is increasing momentum for policy change in this area.