India and Israel Strengthen Fisheries Cooperation with New MoU
In a significant step towards enhancing fisheries and aquaculture, India and Israel signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) during the historic visit of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi to Israel on February 26, 2026. The agreement was signed by Mr. Avi Dichter, Israel’s Minister of Aquaculture, and Dr. S. Jaishankar, India’s External Affairs Minister. This collaboration aims to bolster India’s fisheries sector through innovative and sustainable practices.
The MoU is designed to promote the Blue Economy and improve the livelihoods of coastal and fishing communities in both countries. A crucial aspect of this partnership involves establishing Indo-Israel Centres of Excellence (CoEs) for Fisheries and Aquaculture, along with collaborating to set up an oceanarium in India.
Key Areas of Collaboration
Under the framework of the agreement, both nations will work together on advanced technologies in aquaculture. This includes Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS), automation-based farming techniques, and data-driven management of aquaculture operations. Furthermore, the two countries aim to advance biosecure and climate-resilient farming models, particularly for areas vulnerable to water scarcity and climate change.
The MoU also emphasizes enhanced cooperation in mariculture. This includes innovative seaweed-based systems and Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture (IMTA), leveraging seaweed as both a biofilter and alternative feed resource. Both sides are dedicated to promoting research, encouraging environmentally friendly fishing practices, and advancing technology-led marine conservation efforts.
Building Capacity and Knowledge Exchange
Central to this partnership is the commitment to capacity building and knowledge exchange. The agreement will pave the way for training initiatives, structured exchange programs, and expert-level interactions involving officials and stakeholders from both nations. Additionally, it aims to fortify connections between startups, research institutions, and the fishing industry, focusing on innovations such as water recycling, aquaculture technologies, and product development.
Joint Working Group Established
To facilitate the implementation of the MoU, a Joint Working Group (JWG) will be created. This group will review progress, evaluate annual work plans, and suggest new areas for collaboration. The JWG will hold annual meetings, alternating between India and Israel, either in person or via virtual platforms. Nodal officers will be appointed by both sides to ensure effective coordination and monitoring of MoU activities.
This landmark agreement highlights the dedication of India and Israel to deepening their cooperation in fisheries and aquaculture, fostering innovation, and promoting sustainable development in the sector. Both countries also affirmed their intentions to expand collaboration, building on the earlier Declaration of Intent signed in January 2026, and look forward to the establishment of Joint Centres of Excellence.
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