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.