1 / 102006: A Chief Minister’s Study Tour to Israel | In May 2006, then Chief Minister of Gujarat, Narendra Modi, travelled to Israel with an Indian delegation to attend Agritech-2006, Israel’s leading agricultural technology exhibition. The goal was to study advanced farming and water management systems that could help address drought and irrigation challenges in Gujarat.
2 / 10Agritech-2006 and “Per Drop More Crop” | At Agritech-2006, Modi introduced Gujarat’s agricultural vision under the slogan “Per Drop More Crop,” reflecting Israel’s efficient water use in farming. This phrase later informed the national micro-irrigation programme, Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana.
3 / 10Learning on the Ground | The 2006 visit included tours of kibbutzim (collective farms), the Volcani Centre for agricultural research, and water recycling facilities. Modi met with experts on drip irrigation and explored technologies for water desalination and reuse, laying a foundation for future water and farm reforms.
4 / 102017: First Indian PM to Visit Israel | On July 4, 2017, Narendra Modi became the first Indian Prime Minister to undertake a standalone bilateral visit to Israel since diplomatic ties were established. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu personally received him at the airport and accompanied him through much of the 49-hour visit.
5 / 10Highlights of the 2017 Visit | In 2017, Modi visited the Danziger Flower Farm, where a chrysanthemum was named “MODI,” paid tribute at the Yad Vashem Holocaust Memorial, and visited the home of Israel’s founding leader, David Ben-Gurion. He also honoured Indian soldiers at the Haifa military cemetery—a first by an Indian PM.
6 / 10Strategic Cooperation in 2017 | Nine agreements were signed during the 2017 visit, covering R&D, agriculture, water conservation, space cooperation, and trade. These agreements formalised and expanded cooperation across multiple sectors.
7 / 10Build-Up to 2026 Visit | In the 24 months before the upcoming 2026 visit, deep engagement between India and Israel continued. Talks on a Free Trade Agreement began, defence cooperation was expanded, and high-level visits by ministers strengthened ties in investment, innovation and security.
8 / 102026: Two-Day Historic State Visit | On February 25, PM Modi is scheduled for a two-day state visit to Israel, at the invitation of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. This marks his second visit to Israel as PM. (Image: Reuters)
9 / 10Itinerary and Key Engagements | On the first day, Modi will arrive in Tel Aviv and hold a private meeting with Netanyahu, then address the Israeli Parliament (Knesset), a first for an Indian leader, and participate in a technology exhibition. On the second day, he will visit the Holocaust Memorial at Yad Vashem, meet Israel’s President Isaac Herzog, and hold extended bilateral talks with Netanyahu, followed by the signing of agreements. (Image: Reuters)
10 / 10Focus of 2026 Talks | The discussions in 2026 will focus on deepening the strategic partnership, especially in defence, science and technology, innovation, cybersecurity, quantum technologies, AI, agriculture and water management. Several agreements are expected to be finalised after talks between both Prime Ministers. (Image: Reuters)
