In a significant step towards enhancing agricultural cooperation, a high-level meeting was held at the International Guest House, National Agricultural Science Complex in New Delhi. The meeting brought together the Union Minister for Agriculture, Farmers’ Welfare and Rural Development, Shivraj Singh Chouhan, and Israel’s Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Avi Dicter, marking the latter’s first official visit to India in his current role.
The discussions culminated in the signing of an Agriculture Cooperation Agreement and the exchange of a Work Plan between the two nations. This agreement aims to bolster collaboration in critical areas such as soil and water management, horticultural and agricultural production, post-harvest and processing technology, agricultural mechanization, animal husbandry, and research and development.
During the meeting, Shivraj Singh Chouhan emphasized India’s commitment to global welfare, guided by the philosophy of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” (the world is one family). He highlighted India’s emergence as one of the fastest-growing major economies under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The Minister also praised the role of MASHAV, Israel’s Agency for International Development Cooperation, in the success of India-Israel Agricultural Work Plans. He noted the transformative impact of the 43 Centers of Excellence (CoEs) established across India, with 35 already fully operational. These centers have been instrumental in advancing agricultural practices and fostering rural development. The concept of Villages of Excellence, which connects 30 villages to each CoE, was also lauded as a groundbreaking initiative.
Avi Dicter expressed Israel’s deep bond with India and underscored the potential for collaboration in developing high-yielding seed varieties and innovative agricultural technologies. He highlighted the importance of addressing challenges posed by climate change to ensure future food security. The Israeli delegation showed keen interest in India’s digital agriculture mission, recognizing its role in empowering farmers and revolutionizing the agricultural sector.
Both sides agreed to work together on several key areas, including food security, technology transfer, the development of high-quality seeds, the expansion of Centers of Excellence, research and development, pest management, capacity building, and post-harvest technologies. They also decided to explore a Five-Year Seed Improvement Plan aimed at boosting agricultural productivity and sustainability.
Shivraj Singh Chouhan emphasized the need for collaborative efforts between Indian and Israeli scientists to enhance agricultural productivity, particularly in the context of increasing population and shrinking landholdings. He stressed the importance of ensuring that improved seeds reach farmers, enabling them to achieve higher yields and better livelihoods.
The meeting also included discussions on market access and ongoing collaborations in the horticulture sector. Both sides shared their challenges and priorities, reviewing the progress made in their partnership and identifying new opportunities for cooperation.
The Indian delegation included senior officials from the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, as well as representatives from the Ministry of External Affairs. The Israeli delegation comprised Ambassador Reuven Azar, Deputy Director General for Foreign Trade and International Cooperation Yakov Poleg, and other key officials.
The meeting concluded with warm wishes for a successful and productive visit to India, setting the stage for a deeper and more dynamic partnership between the two nations. The joint efforts in agriculture are expected to yield meaningful outcomes, promoting innovation, technology exchange, and sustainable development.
