India and Israel have signed a new Agriculture Cooperation Agreement aimed at strengthening their agricultural partnership, with a focus on improving food security, advancing agricultural technology, and enhancing productivity. The agreement was finalized on April 8, 2025, during a meeting between India’s Union Minister for Agriculture, Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan, and Israel’s Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Avi Dicter, at the International Guest House, National Agricultural Science Complex in New Delhi.
The newly signed agreement will enhance cooperation in a variety of key agricultural fields, including soil and water management, horticultural and agricultural production, post-harvest technologies, mechanization, and animal husbandry. Both nations are also committed to advancing agricultural research and development (R&D) through shared innovations and joint efforts to address emerging challenges.
A significant aspect of the agreement is the focus on improving agricultural productivity through the development of high-quality seeds and technological innovations. Israel has agreed to support India’s agricultural sector by offering expertise in seed development, pest management, and agricultural mechanization. India, in return, requested that Israel provide market access for various crops, including onion, potato, garlic, green chilies, turmeric, pineapple, mango, pomegranate, grapes, and okra seeds. This reciprocal trade will help diversify agricultural exports and improve the competitiveness of Indian farmers.
In addition to the emphasis on seed improvement, the two countries discussed expanding Centers of Excellence (CoEs), which are designed to promote agricultural research and education. These centers will serve as hubs for knowledge exchange, technology transfer, and the development of innovative farming practices. A Five-Year Seed Improvement Plan (FYSIP) will also be explored to enhance the quality and sustainability of agricultural production in both nations.
One of the primary goals of the collaboration is to address the challenges posed by rapidly growing populations and shrinking landholdings. With the global agricultural landscape facing mounting pressures, increasing food production is becoming increasingly difficult. Chouhan highlighted that improving agricultural productivity through technological advancements and better resource management will be crucial in meeting the growing demand for food.
Both countries are keen to support each other in advancing digital agriculture technologies. Israel has expressed interest in India’s digital agriculture mission, which has been empowering Indian farmers by providing them with valuable data and tools to enhance farming practices. The use of digital platforms for precision agriculture, data analytics, and real-time decision-making has the potential to revolutionize farming techniques and increase crop yields.
The agreement also includes measures to address post-harvest losses, a significant issue for both nations. Advancements in post-harvest technologies, including better storage, transportation, and processing methods, will help reduce food waste and improve the value chain of agricultural products. The collaboration aims to improve the efficiency of the entire agricultural system, from production to consumption.
A Joint Working Group (JWG) will be established to ensure the continuous development of the agreement, focusing on creating a clear roadmap with defined goals and timelines. The JWG will also facilitate ongoing dialogue between Indian and Israeli authorities to ensure that projects are successfully implemented and that both nations benefit from the partnership.
The partnership between India and Israel marks an important step toward addressing global food security challenges. Both countries are committed to leveraging their strengths and collaborating on innovative solutions to build a more resilient and sustainable agricultural sector. Through this partnership, India and Israel aim to make significant contributions to global efforts to ensure food security for future generations.
