Sadhguru, the prominent Indian yogi and spiritual leader, has called for significant legal reforms to ensure that farmers retain ownership of everything produced on their farmland. Speaking at a seminar in Hosur, Tamil Nadu, on December 26, 2025, Sadhguru emphasized the need for a legal framework that recognizes farmers’ rights over their produce, which he argues is essential for the sustainability of agriculture and the livelihoods of millions of farmers across India.
The seminar, which also featured Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, focused on tree-based agriculture and its potential to enhance the economic viability of farming. Sadhguru’s remarks come at a time when the agricultural sector in India faces numerous challenges, including climate change, fluctuating market prices, and increasing input costs. His advocacy for legal reform is seen as a response to these ongoing issues, which have led to widespread distress among farmers.
Sadhguru’s proposal centers on the idea that farmers should have complete ownership of all agricultural products, including crops, fruits, and any other produce grown on their land. Currently, various laws and regulations govern agricultural production and ownership, often leading to disputes over land rights and produce ownership. By reforming these laws, Sadhguru believes that farmers would be empowered to make better decisions regarding their crops and could potentially increase their income and food security.
The context of Sadhguru’s advocacy is rooted in the broader struggles faced by Indian farmers. Over the past few decades, the agricultural sector has been under significant pressure due to factors such as urbanization, industrialization, and changing climate patterns. Many farmers have reported losses due to erratic weather conditions and market fluctuations, leading to a crisis that has resulted in a high rate of farmer suicides in some regions. The demand for reforms that prioritize farmers’ rights and welfare has gained momentum, particularly following the protests against the controversial farm laws in 2020-2021.
Sadhguru’s call for reform aligns with the growing movement among various stakeholders, including farmer unions, environmentalists, and policymakers, advocating for a more equitable agricultural system. His emphasis on tree-based agriculture also highlights an emerging trend in sustainable farming practices, which aim to enhance biodiversity, improve soil health, and increase farmers’ resilience to climate change. Tree-based agriculture involves integrating trees into farming systems, which can provide additional income sources and ecological benefits.
The implications of Sadhguru’s proposal extend beyond the immediate concerns of farmers. If implemented, such legal reforms could reshape the agricultural landscape in India, potentially leading to increased productivity and sustainability. By ensuring that farmers have ownership of their produce, the reforms could incentivize them to invest in better farming practices, adopt innovative technologies, and engage in sustainable land management.
Moreover, the proposed changes could have significant economic implications. Agriculture remains a cornerstone of the Indian economy, employing nearly half of the country’s workforce and contributing to a substantial portion of the GDP. Strengthening farmers’ rights could enhance their bargaining power in the market, leading to fairer prices for their products and improved livelihoods. This, in turn, could stimulate rural economies and contribute to national food security.
Sadhguru’s advocacy also raises questions about the role of government and policy in supporting farmers. As discussions around agricultural reforms continue, the government may need to consider how to balance the interests of farmers, consumers, and the environment. Policymakers will have to navigate complex issues related to land ownership, agricultural subsidies, and market access to create a framework that supports sustainable farming practices while ensuring food security for the growing population.
In conclusion, Sadhguru’s call for legal reforms to ensure farmers’ ownership of their produce is a significant development in the ongoing discourse surrounding agricultural policy in India. As the country grapples with the challenges facing its agricultural sector, the proposed changes could play a crucial role in empowering farmers, enhancing sustainability, and ultimately contributing to the resilience of the agricultural economy. The discussions initiated by Sadhguru and other stakeholders will likely continue to shape the future of farming in India as the nation seeks to address the pressing issues of food security and rural livelihoods.
