Punjab, Israel to forge strategic agri-partnership to make state a Global Seed Capital
Babushahi Bureau
Chandigarh, December 22, 2025: Punjab is set to emerge as a global seed capital as the state government explores a strategic partnership with Israel to integrate cutting-edge agricultural technologies. This development was discussed during a high-level meeting between Punjab Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister S. Gurmeet Singh Khudian and Mr. Fares Saeb, Minister and Deputy Head of Mission at the Embassy of Israel, at Punjab Bhawan on Monday.
S. Gurmeet Singh Khudian said the collaboration will focus on four key areas: exporting food grain seeds to Israel, academic exchanges between Punjab Agricultural University (PAU), Ludhiana and Israeli institutions, exchanging citrus stocks, and adopting advanced water-management technologies.
A key highlight of the discussions was the introduction of Israel’s precision ‘N-Drip’ irrigation system, which can save up to 70% water and significantly reduce energy consumption. Punjab will also explore adopting Israeli expertise in treating and utilising sewage and village pond water for irrigation, following Israel’s model where 95% of treated wastewater is reused in agriculture.
“This tie would be a visionary leap for Punjab’s farming community. Merging Israeli innovation with our agricultural strength, we aim to secure water resources, boost farmer profitability, and position Punjab as a leader in seed production and sustainable farming practices globally,” said Khudian.
Mr. Fares Saeb expressed keen interest in importing food grain seeds from Punjab and invited a high-level delegation from the state to deepen collaboration in agricultural research, development, and water reuse technologies. He also highlighted improved connectivity, announcing a direct Delhi-Israel flight starting January 2026, reducing travel time to about six hours.
The meeting was attended by Secretary Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Arshdeep Singh Thind, MD Punjab Agro Hargunjit Kaur, Special Secretary Agriculture Baldeep Kaur, Director Agriculture Jaswant Singh, and other senior officials.