India and Israel’s bilateral ties are gaining vigour at geopolitical level.
Prior to 2014, the relationship between India and Israel was defined by multiple abstinences on strategic grounds on India’s part. However, the relationship manages to survive due to sustained partnership in defence, agriculture and technology sector.
After 2014, an improvement is observed in the strategic ties forged by frequent visits and meetings of prime ministers and ministers. In 2014, India withdrew Israeli inhibition. It’s West-Asian outlook has changed.
Further, it maintains a neutral stance in UN. Moreover, amidst the ongoing Palestinian war, it supported Palestine’s liberation.
India and Israel’s bilateral ties: Effects on defence sector
India and Israel have a history of defence based trade partnership. In 1971 and 1999, Israel helped India with mortars and ammunition.
Firstly, Israel is one of the world’s leading arm producer. While, India is the world’s second largest importer of arms from Israel. It imports 43% of Israel’s production.
Israel’s expertise meets India’s current requirements as the latter plans to bolster it’s defence sector.
Effects on technology and agricultural sector
Israel is the leader in agri-tech. They employ technology to yield better agricultural results.
In 2014, during the then-President Shimon Peres’s visit, he spoke about bringing about second green revolution in India. MASHAV is working with India’s ministry of agriculture to establish 30 centres of excellence to help over 1.2 lakh farmers in India. It is important for India as agriculture sector generates 52% employment in India. Also, it accounts for 16% of GDP.
Additionally, India and Israel partner to upgrade tech sector.
