India-Israel Agricultural Cooperation

Context

India and Israel have recently signed a landmark agreement to enhance bilateral cooperation in the agriculture sector. This partnership aims to boost agricultural productivity, ensure food security, and modernize farming practices in both countries. The agreement was signed during a visit by Israel’s Agriculture Minister Avi Dicter to India, marking a significant step in strengthening the agricultural ties between the two nations.

Background of India-Israel Agricultural Ties

The India-Israel partnership in agriculture is not new; it has been evolving over the years through various collaborative projects. One of the key initiatives has been the establishment of Centres of Excellence (CoEs) across several Indian states. These centers have played a pivotal role in sharing Israeli expertise with Indian farmers, particularly in horticulture and protected cultivation techniques. The latest agreements represent a continuation and expansion of this strong partnership, reaffirming both nations’ commitment to innovation, sustainability, and food security for future generations.

Key Areas of Cooperation

The new agreements focus on several critical areas to enhance agricultural cooperation between India and Israel:

• Soil and Water Management: Both countries have agreed to collaborate on advanced technologies for efficient soil and water management. This is crucial for improving crop yields and reducing the environmental impact of farming practices.
• Horticultural and Agricultural Production: The agreement emphasizes the development of high-quality and high-yielding crop varieties through joint research and development efforts. This includes the creation of climate-resilient seeds capable of withstanding extreme weather conditions.
• Post-Harvest and Processing Technology: Improving post-harvest technologies is essential for reducing losses and enhancing the quality of agricultural produce. Both nations will work together to implement advanced processing techniques.
• Agriculture Mechanisation: Mechanization of farming practices is vital for increasing efficiency and productivity. The agreement includes provisions for the adoption of modern agricultural machinery and tools.
• Animal Husbandry: Cooperation in animal husbandry aims to improve livestock productivity and health through advanced breeding techniques and disease management strategies.
• Research and Development: A significant focus area is research and development, particularly in creating climate-resilient crop varieties and improving seed quality. This includes the exploration of a Five-Year Seed Improvement Plan (FYSIP) to boost agricultural productivity and ensure food security.

Challenges and Opportunities

• Climate Change and Population Growth: Both India and Israel face significant challenges from climate change and population growth, which threaten agricultural sustainability. The agreements emphasize the need for technological innovation and international collaboration to address these challenges.
• Small Landholdings in India: A major structural challenge in Indian agriculture is the prevalence of small landholdings, which affects productivity and income. The government is taking proactive steps to improve the profitability and sustainability of agriculture for marginal and small farmers.

Market Access and Trade

• Indian Request for Market Access: India has requested Israel to provide market access for several agricultural commodities, including onions, potatoes, garlic, green chilies, turmeric, pineapple, mango, pomegranate, grapes, and okra seeds. This move is expected to enhance bilateral trade and benefit Indian farmers by expanding their export markets.
• Joint Working Group: To facilitate ongoing cooperation and implement the agreed roadmap, a joint working group will be established. This group will focus on specific areas such as market access, agricultural research, and the expansion of centers of excellence.

Conclusion

The recent agreements between India and Israel mark a significant milestone in their agricultural cooperation. By focusing on innovation, sustainability, and food security, both nations aim to enhance agricultural productivity and address global challenges such as climate change. The partnership is expected to transform India’s farming landscape and contribute to global food security efforts.

Future Prospects

The future of India-Israel agricultural cooperation looks promising, with potential for further expansion in areas like precision farming, water-efficient irrigation methods, and the use of cutting-edge agri-tech. The establishment of a joint working group will ensure continuous dialogue and progress in achieving the set goals. As both countries continue to face common challenges, their collaborative efforts are poised to make substantial contributions to overcoming these hurdles and ensuring sustainable agricultural practices for generations to come.

Source: indiatoday.in

UPSC Mains Practice Question

Q. Discuss the significance of India-Israel agricultural cooperation in enhancing India’s farm productivity and sustainability. Highlight key initiatives and their impact on Indian agriculture. (10 marks, 150 words)

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