Daijiworld Media Network – New Delhi

New Delhi, Apr 8: In a significant step towards strengthening bilateral ties, Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan and Israel’s Minister of Agriculture and Food Security Avi Dichter on Tuesday signed an agriculture cooperation agreement and work plan to enhance collaboration between the two nations in agricultural development.

The agreement paves the way for deeper cooperation in critical areas such as soil and water management, horticulture, post-harvest technology, farm mechanization, animal husbandry, and research and development.

Chouhan hailed the pact as a milestone, reaffirming India’s commitment under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership to global welfare and sustainable agricultural growth. He lauded the contribution of MASHAV, Israel’s Agency for International Development Cooperation, for its vital role in the success of the Indo-Israel Agricultural Work Plans, particularly through its extensive network of 43 Centres of Excellence (CoEs) across India—35 of which are fully operational and helping modernise Indian agriculture.

The minister also praised Israel’s innovative ‘villages of excellence’ model, which links 30 villages to each CoE to enhance rural development and knowledge dissemination.

Israeli Minister Avi Dichter echoed the sentiment of strong partnership, expressing his country’s keen interest in collaborating with India on the development of high-yield seed varieties, climate-resilient technologies, and advancing digital agriculture tools to empower Indian farmers.

Recognising the dual challenges of rising population and shrinking land holdings, Chouhan called for joint research efforts between scientists of both nations to ensure that innovative technologies and superior seeds reach farmers swiftly.

The ministers also reviewed ongoing partnerships in the horticulture sector and discussed enhancing market access. Plans were discussed to set up a joint working group that will maintain ongoing dialogue, define clear roadmaps, and track progress on set goals.

Both sides agreed to intensify cooperation in vital areas such as food security, technology transfer, pest management, capacity building, and post-harvest solutions. Additionally, they explored the possibility of launching a five-year seed improvement programme aimed at boosting productivity and ensuring sustainable agricultural practices.