VISAKHAPATNAM: Hello pot, meet Sheelavathi. This distinctive strain of cannabis is rolling high. Primarily cultivated in tribal areas along the Andhra-Odisha border, Sheelavathi has emerged as the most coveted variety in India, surpassing the popular Malana Cream grown in Himachal over the past three to four years.
Enforcement department sources reveal that of the 23 lakh kilos of ganja confiscated by NCB nationwide in the past four years, more than 70% belonged to the Sheelavathi strain. This staggering seizure underscores the escalating demand for the contraband and its proliferation across the country.
The cannabis plant has a number of chemical compounds called cannabinoids, of which tetrahydrocannabinol is the basic psychoactive element. Sheelavathi possesses its distinct set of terpenes and aromatic compounds, setting it apart from other cannabis varieties, stated an official from Andhra’s Special Enforcement Bureau.
Malana Cream, predominantly grown in Himachal Pradesh’s Kullu region, enjoyed popularity until 2019. However, its limited supply and high prices, ranging from Rs 5 lakh to Rs 8 lakh a kg, rendered it less accessible compared to Sheelavathi, available for Rs 80,000 to Rs 1.2 lakh a kg.
Sheelavathi was historically farmed across various parts of Alluri Sitharama Raju district in Andhra Pradesh, bordering Odisha. But rigorous enforcement measures have restricted its cultivation to Malkangiri and Koraput districts of Odisha, along with select areas of ASR district.
Sheelavathi’s rising popularity can be attributed to its affordability in comparison to both Malana Cream and Idukki Gold from Kerala. The demand for this strain has skyrocketed, leading to concern among law enforcement agencies.
This emerging trend is reflected in the seizure of over 70% of the confiscated ganja nationwide belonging to the Sheelavathi strain. The distinct set of terpenes and aromatic compounds present in Sheelavathi sets it apart from other cannabis varieties.
While Malana Cream and Idukki Gold may have their own charm, Sheelavathi offers a more affordable alternative, the official stated. The presence of tetrahydrocannabinol, the psychoactive element in cannabis, adds to its allure among users.
With its affordability and higher availability, Sheelavathi has become the cream of the cannabis crop. Authorities are grappling with the challenge of tackling the influx of this strain, which has permeated the market at a rapid pace.
Sheelavathi’s cultivation is now limited to specific regions to curb its prevalence. The once widespread farming of this strain in the Alluri Sitharama Raju district has faced significant restrictions, leading to an increased focus on cultivation in Malkangiri, Koraput, and select areas of the ASR district.
Law enforcement agencies, while acknowledging the challenges associated with the rising demand for Sheelavathi, remain committed to curbing the illegal drug trade. Efforts are being made to strengthen inter-state coordination to effectively combat the cultivation, transportation, and sale of this cannabis strain.
As Sheelavathi continues to gain popularity, authorities will need to stay vigilant and implement stringent measures to address the growing menace of drug trafficking. The need for further awareness campaigns and interventions to prioritize public health and well-being in relation to substance abuse remains critical.
In conclusion, Sheelavathi has emerged as the new cream of cannabis in India, surpassing the popularity of Malana Cream. Its affordability and distinct properties make it highly sought after in the illegal drug market. Law enforcement agencies are working towards curbing its proliferation and ensuring the safety and security of the public.
