India–Israel Fisheries and Aquaculture MoU was signed on 26th February 2026, marking a significant step toward strengthening bilateral cooperation in the fisheries and aquaculture sector. The agreement was formalised during the historic visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Israel.
The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Cooperation in the Field of Fisheries and Aquaculture was signed between Hon’ble Minister, Department of Aquaculture, Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security of Israel, Avi Dichter, and External Affairs Minister, Government of India, Dr. S. Jaishankar.
The India–Israel Fisheries and Aquaculture MoU aims to strengthen India’s fisheries and aquaculture sector through technology-driven and sustainable practices, while enhancing the Blue Economy and improving the livelihoods of coastal and fishing communities.
Focus on Centres of Excellence and Oceanarium Collaboration
Under the India–Israel Fisheries and Aquaculture MoU, both countries will promote professional collaboration in establishing new Indo–Israel Centres of Excellence (CoEs) for Fisheries and Aquaculture. The agreement also includes technical cooperation for setting up an oceanarium in India.
The MoU provides a comprehensive framework for cooperation across mutually identified priority areas. The India–Israel Fisheries and Aquaculture MoU focuses on collaboration in advanced Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS), water reuse technologies, automation-based farming, and data-driven aquaculture management.
Both sides will work towards developing biosecure and climate-resilient farming models suitable for water-scarce and climate-stressed regions.
The India–Israel Fisheries and Aquaculture MoU also prioritises strengthening aquatic disease management through novel therapeutics, non-invasive alternatives, and scientific approaches aimed at improving disease resistance.
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Mariculture, Seaweed Systems and Sustainable Marine Practices
The India–Israel Fisheries and Aquaculture MoU further enhances cooperation in mariculture, including seaweed-based systems. Joint efforts in Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture (IMTA), particularly the use of seaweed as a biofilter and as an alternative feed resource, form a key component of the agreement.
Both countries have agreed to promote research and development in fisheries and aquaculture, encourage environmentally friendly fishing practices, and advance technology-led marine resource conservation.
The India–Israel Fisheries and Aquaculture MoU places a strong emphasis on long-term sustainability and climate resilience.
India–Israel Fisheries and Aquaculture MoU: Capacity Building, Startups and Innovation Ecosystems
Capacity building and knowledge exchange are key pillars of the India–Israel Fisheries and Aquaculture MoU. The two sides will explore structured exchange programmes, training initiatives, exposure visits, and expert-level interactions for officials, entrepreneurs, and sector stakeholders.
The India–Israel Fisheries and Aquaculture MoU also aims to strengthen linkages between startups, research institutions, and industry, particularly in areas such as water recycling, innovative aquaculture technologies, and product development through incubators and innovation ecosystems.
Joint Working Group to Oversee Implementation
To ensure effective implementation, a Joint Working Group (JWG) will be constituted under the India–Israel Fisheries and Aquaculture MoU.
The JWG will facilitate implementation, review progress, evaluate annual work plans, and consider new areas of cooperation.
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The Joint Working Group will meet annually, either in person or through virtual mode, alternating between India and Israel. Both sides will designate nodal officers to coordinate and monitor activities under the India–Israel Fisheries and Aquaculture MoU.
This landmark India–Israel Fisheries and Aquaculture MoU reflects the shared commitment of both nations to deepen cooperation in fisheries and aquaculture, promote innovation, and strengthen sustainable and climate-resilient development in the sector.
Both sides also welcomed the earlier Declaration of Intent signed in January 2026 and reaffirmed their resolve to expand collaboration, including through the establishment of Joint Centres of Excellence.
