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Narendra Modi

PM Modi Marks 76th Birthday With SEMICON India 2026 Inauguration

by theparliamentnews.com 17 September 2026

written by theparliamentnews.com

Prime Minister Narendra Modi turned 76 on September 17, 2026, with the occasion coinciding with the inauguration of SEMICON India 2026 at Yashobhoomi in New Delhi. The three-day semiconductor and electronics event, being held from September 17 to 19, brings together companies, policymakers, investors, researchers, start-ups and academic institutions from across the global semiconductor ecosystem.

The fifth edition of SEMICON India is being held under the theme “Silicon to Systems: Building the Ecosystem.” The event focuses on collaboration, investment, innovation and talent development across areas ranging from semiconductor materials and equipment to chip design, fabrication, advanced packaging, electronics and systems.

More than 600 companies and representatives from 52 countries are participating in the event, according to the Prime Minister’s Office. The exhibition also features country pavilions, state booths, a startup pavilion, an innovation showcase and workforce-development initiatives.

The timing of the event places semiconductor development at the centre of the Prime Minister’s birthday engagements. India has been seeking to expand its presence across the semiconductor value chain, with the government’s semiconductor programme supporting projects related to manufacturing, packaging and other parts of the ecosystem. PIB has said that 12 projects have been approved under the first phase of the programme.

At the inauguration, Modi also interacted with participants at the exhibition. Recent reporting from the event indicates that the government is looking to expand the next phase of its semiconductor programme, with greater emphasis on chip design, manufacturing and development of skilled technical talent.

Alongside the official programme, birthday-related public service activities and celebrations have been organised in different parts of the country. Modi has acknowledged the wishes and blessings received from citizens, linking them to his continuing commitment to public service.

Born on September 17, 1950, in Vadnagar, Gujarat, Modi became Prime Minister in 2014 and began his third consecutive term in June 2024. His 76th birthday therefore coincides with an event centred on one of the technology sectors that the government has identified as important to India’s industrial and economic development.

SEMICON India 2026 provides a platform for discussions around India’s semiconductor capabilities and its participation in global electronics supply chains. The event’s focus on manufacturing, research, investment and workforce development reflects the broader effort to build domestic capabilities in a strategically important technology sector.

For the Prime Minister, the September 17 programme combines a personal milestone with a major national technology event, placing India’s semiconductor ambitions alongside the wider themes of innovation, industrial development and the country’s longer-term development goals.

17 September 2026 0 comment

Environment Blog Education & Tech World

World Environment Council Successfully Conducted National Webinar on Sustainability and Environmental Literacy for Next Generation

by theparliamentnews.com 9 September 2026

written by theparliamentnews.com

New Delhi, 9 September 2026: The World Environment Council (WEC) successfully conducted its National Webinar 2026 on the theme “Sustainability & Environmental Literacy for the Next Generation” on 9 September 2026. The online webinar brought together teachers, students, researchers, environmentalists, professionals and participants from different parts of the country to discuss the importance of environmental awareness, education and practical action.

The session was chaired by Prof. Ganesh Channa, who welcomed the participants and emphasized that environmental challenges are no longer concerns limited to scientists, environmentalists or government institutions. Climate change, biodiversity loss, pollution, water scarcity, waste management, energy consumption and pressure on natural resources affect individuals, communities, institutions and future generations.

Prof. Channa explained that environmental literacy goes beyond simply knowing about environmental problems. It involves understanding environmental issues, recognizing their causes and impacts, making responsible choices and translating knowledge into practical action. He highlighted the important progression from knowledge and understanding to responsibility and action.

Prof. Hemlata Talesra Highlights the Role of Education: The featured speaker, Prof. Hemlata Talesra, focused on environmental literacy, sustainable development and the role of education in creating a greener future.

Prof. Talesa emphasized the moral responsibility of society to protect the environment and promote sustainable development. Her presentation highlighted the interconnected relationship between environmental protection, economic development and social progress, along with the importance of the Sustainable Development Goals.

She also discussed key environmental principles, including the interconnectedness of nature, the importance of all forms of life, the finite nature of the Earth and the collective responsibility to protect the environment.

According to Prof. Talesra, education is one of the most powerful tools for developing environmental awareness. Environmental education can provide students and communities with the knowledge, skills and values needed to understand environmental challenges and contribute to long-term solutions.

She called for environmental concepts to be integrated across school and college subjects and encouraged critical thinking, hands-on learning, connection with nature and participation in local environmental initiatives. She also stressed the importance of starting environmental action at the grassroots level.

Interactive Discussion on Environmental Challenges: A significant feature of the webinar was the open interaction between speakers and participants. Participants raised questions and shared experiences related to waste management, environmental education, ESG, sustainable industry, water conservation, digital pollution, environmental governance, resource-based conflicts and sustainable development.

The discussion highlighted practical challenges such as waste segregation, public awareness, implementation of environmental policies and the need for stronger participation from educational institutions, communities, NGOs, industries and local authorities.

Participants also discussed how students can contribute through activities such as waste management initiatives, composting, rainwater harvesting, lake and community clean-up activities, recycling, biodiversity protection and environmental awareness campaigns.

The webinar also emphasized that environmental responsibility should not remain an individual effort alone. Educational institutions, businesses, industries, government bodies, civil society organizations and communities all have important roles in creating sustainable systems.

From Awareness to Action: The webinar repeatedly emphasized that awareness must lead to action. Participants were encouraged to adopt simple but consistent environmental practices such as saving water and energy, reducing unnecessary consumption, reusing and repairing products, segregating waste, reducing food waste, avoiding unnecessary single-use products and choosing walking, cycling or public transport wherever practical.

The webinar concluded with a call for collective responsibility and continued environmental engagement. Prof. Ganesh Channa urged participants to make sustainability part of everyday life and highlighted the WEC’s guiding spirit:

“Educate • Inspire • Empower • Act.”

He emphasized that a sustainable future cannot be created by one person or one organization alone, but through the responsible choices and collective efforts of people every day.

The World Environment Council expressed its gratitude to Prof. Hemlata Talesra, Prof. Ganesh Channa, the organizers, speakers and all participants for contributing to the National Webinar 2026.

“For a Sustainable Earth. For Future Generations.”

9 September 2026 0 comment

Blog Education & Tech Featured India

Education Ministry Gets New Leadership as Pralhad Joshi Takes Charge

by theparliamentnews.com 26 July 2026

written by theparliamentnews.com

New Delhi, July 26: Union Minister Pralhad Joshi on Sunday officially assumed charge as the Union Minister for Education at Kartavya Bhavan, a day after President Droupadi Murmu accepted the resignation of Dharmendra Pradhan from the Union Council of Ministers.

Mr. Joshi, who continues to hold the portfolios of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, and New and Renewable Energy, was entrusted with the additional responsibility of the Ministry of Education following the recommendation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Dharmendra Pradhan resigned from the post on July 25, with his resignation accepted by the President under Article 75(2) of the Constitution of India, with immediate effect.

Following the change in leadership, Pralhad Joshi chaired a review meeting at the Ministry of Education to assess the implementation of ongoing schemes, programmes, and key initiatives. Minister of State for Education Jayant Chaudhary attended the meeting alongside senior officials.

The meeting was also attended by Dr. Vineet Joshi, Secretary, Department of Higher Education, T. K. Anil Kumar, Secretary, Department of School Education and Literacy, and other senior officers of the Ministry.

According to an official statement, the President assigned the additional charge of the Ministry of Education to Pralhad Joshi on the advice of the Prime Minister.

Dharmendra Pradhan’s resignation came amid nationwide student protests over the NEET paper leak controversy, which had intensified political pressure on the Union government. Protesters had demanded accountability from the Ministry of Education over alleged irregularities in the examination process.

With Pralhad Joshi taking charge, the Ministry is expected to continue reviewing ongoing education policies while addressing key issues related to examinations, higher education, and school education.

26 July 2026 0 comment

Blog Featured India Parliament Parliament

What is Rule 267? The Rajya Sabha Procedure at the Centre of Opposition’s Demand

by theparliamentnews.com 23 July 2026

written by theparliamentnews.com

New Delhi, July 23: For the second straight day, disruptions occurred in both Houses of Parliament as Opposition parties persisted in calling for discussions regarding the purported NEET paper leak, police actions against demonstrators in Delhi, and the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. In the Rajya Sabha, the Opposition attempted to utilize Rule 267 of the Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business to halt the scheduled proceedings of the day and focus on these matters.

The repeated references to Rule 267 during the ongoing Monsoon Session have brought renewed attention to one of the Rajya Sabha’s most significant procedural provisions. The rule provides a mechanism for setting aside the House’s scheduled agenda in exceptional circumstances, subject to the approval of the Chairman.

What is Rule 267?

Rule 267 is a special procedural provision available only in the Rajya Sabha. It allows any member, with the consent of the Chairman, to move a motion seeking the suspension of a rule governing the day’s listed business. If the motion is admitted and approved by the House, the scheduled agenda may be set aside temporarily to enable discussion on a matter considered to be of urgent public importance.

The provision is intended for exceptional situations rather than routine parliamentary business. It cannot be invoked where another specific rule already provides a mechanism for suspending proceedings under a particular chapter of the Rules. The Chairman exercises complete discretion in deciding whether a notice submitted under Rule 267 should be admitted.

Why Did the Opposition Seek Rule 267?

The Opposition submitted notices under Rule 267 on July 22, arguing that the alleged NEET paper leak, the reported police action against protesters in Delhi, and the demand for the Education Minister’s resignation required immediate parliamentary discussion before any other business.

Leader of the Opposition in the Rajya Sabha, Mallikarjun Kharge, urged the Chair to allow a debate under Rule 267, stating that the issues were matters of urgent public importance and deserved priority over the scheduled agenda.

The government maintained that it was prepared to discuss the issues but argued that the debate should take place under the normal rules of parliamentary procedure instead of suspending the House’s listed business.

Continued Deadlock in Parliament

The procedural disagreement continued on July 23, with repeated protests by Opposition members disrupting proceedings in the Rajya Sabha. Members insisted that discussions on the NEET paper leak, police action against protesters, and the Education Minister’s resignation be taken up before any legislative business.

As the Rule 267 notices were not admitted, the House witnessed repeated adjournments and was eventually adjourned for the day without transacting substantial business.

Similar scenes unfolded in the Lok Sabha, where Opposition members protested in the Well of the House while demanding immediate discussions on the same issues. The government accused the Opposition of disrupting parliamentary functioning despite its stated willingness to hold discussions through the regular procedural framework.

How Often Has Rule 267 Been Used?

Rule 267 has historically been invoked only in exceptional circumstances. Parliamentary records indicate that the provision was admitted only 11 times between 1990 and 2016, highlighting its limited use.

Among the notable instances was the debate on the Union government’s demonetisation decision in November 2016, when the Rajya Sabha suspended its scheduled business to discuss the issue. Another significant occasion occurred in April 2015, when the House invoked Rule 267 to debate the agrarian crisis and issues affecting farmers.

Although notices under Rule 267 are submitted frequently during contentious parliamentary sessions, they are rarely admitted by the Chair.

Is There a Similar Rule in the Lok Sabha?

The Lok Sabha does not have a direct equivalent to Rule 267. Instead, members may seek discussion on urgent matters through procedural devices such as Adjournment Motions, governed by Rules 56 to 63 of the Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business in the Lok Sabha.

The recent demand from the opposition regarding the NEET paper leak underscores the significance of Rule 267 in the Rajya Sabha’s procedural context. This rule allows members to call for the suspension of scheduled business to address pressing issues, though its invocation is typically at the Chairman’s discretion. The opposition’s reliance on Rule 267 reflects a strategic approach to elevate urgent matters within parliamentary discussions. Ultimately, while the Lok Sabha employs different mechanisms for addressing urgent issues, Rule 267 distinctly characterizes the Rajya Sabha’s procedural dynamics.

23 July 2026 0 comment

Blog Featured India World

India–New Zealand Trade: What the Numbers Tell Us Ahead of PM Modi’s Visit

by theparliamentnews.com 9 July 2026

written by theparliamentnews.com

As Prime Minister Narendra Modi prepares to visit New Zealand, attention is naturally turning to the growing economic relationship between the two countries. While the visit carries diplomatic significance, the trade figures offer an equally interesting story one of steady growth, expanding cooperation, and a partnership that is gradually broadening beyond traditional sectors.

A Relationship Built on More Than Goods

India and New Zealand may not be among each other’s largest trading partners, but economic ties have strengthened over the years. Bilateral merchandise trade reached approximately US$1.3 billion in 2024–25, while total trade in goods and services stood at around US$2.4 billion in 2024. Services alone contributed about US$1.24 billion, reflecting increasing collaboration in travel, information technology, education, and business services.

These figures highlight that the relationship is no longer driven solely by physical goods. Services have become a significant pillar of economic engagement, supported by business travel, international education, and digital industries.

The Trade Agreement in Context

One of the major developments in recent months has been the signing of a free trade agreement between India and New Zealand. The agreement aims to reduce trade barriers by eliminating tariffs on a large share of goods traded between the two countries.

Lower tariffs can make products more price-competitive and improve market access for exporters. However, trade agreements typically produce results over time. Businesses need to adjust supply chains, explore new markets, and build commercial partnerships before the full benefits become visible.

Which Sectors Could Benefit?

Several industries could see new opportunities as trade becomes more accessible:

Agriculture and food products, where both countries have established export strengths.
Information technology and digital services, building on India’s growing global presence.
Education, with New Zealand remaining a destination for Indian students.
Tourism, supported by stronger people-to-people connections and business travel.
Business and professional services, where demand has grown steadily in recent years.

The extent of these benefits will depend on market demand, business investment, and the implementation of the agreement.

Looking Beyond Trade

Economic discussions are expected to be only one part of the leaders’ agenda. Areas such as technology, investment, maritime security, tourism, education, and sports are also likely to feature in bilateral talks.

This reflects a broader trend: countries are increasingly building partnerships across multiple sectors rather than focusing only on trade volumes. Stronger cooperation in these areas can support long-term economic and strategic ties.

What the Numbers Suggest

The available trade data points to a relationship that is expanding gradually rather than rapidly. While the overall trade volume remains modest compared with India’s largest trading partners, recent developments indicate a willingness on both sides to deepen economic engagement.

Prime Minister Modi’s visit is therefore significant not because it promises immediate transformation, but because it builds on an existing trajectory of cooperation. If the trade agreement is implemented effectively and businesses on both sides seize new opportunities, the coming years could see further growth in trade, investment, and services.

For now, the numbers suggest a partnership that is evolving steadily supported by trade, strengthened by services, and increasingly shaped by wider collaboration between India and New Zealand.

9 July 2026 0 comment

Blog Featured India World

Why the India-Japan Partnership Is Entering a New Strategic Phase

by theparliamentnews.com 30 June 2026

written by theparliamentnews.com

Diplomatic visits between world leaders often produce joint statements and agreements, but some meetings carry broader strategic significance. Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s visit to India is one such occasion, reflecting how New Delhi and Tokyo are steadily transforming their relationship into one of Asia’s most important strategic partnerships.

As Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Prime Minister Takaichi co-chair the 16th India-Japan Annual Summit, the discussions go well beyond routine diplomacy. The agenda covers trade, investment, defence, emerging technologies, clean energy and regional security areas that increasingly define geopolitical influence and economic resilience.

From Economic Partners to Strategic Allies

Over the past decade, India and Japan have steadily expanded cooperation beyond traditional economic ties. Since elevating their relationship to a Special Strategic and Global Partnership in 2014, both countries have found common ground in promoting a stable Indo-Pacific, strengthening supply chains and supporting rules-based international order.

The latest summit is expected to reinforce that trajectory. Rather than focusing solely on increasing trade volumes, both governments are looking to build long-term resilience in sectors considered critical for future economic growth and national security.

Technology Takes Centre Stage

Artificial intelligence, semiconductors, battery technology and critical minerals are expected to feature prominently during the talks.

These industries are increasingly viewed as strategic assets rather than simply commercial opportunities. As countries seek to reduce dependence on concentrated global supply chains, India and Japan are positioning themselves as trusted partners capable of developing diversified manufacturing ecosystems.

Expected agreements in artificial intelligence and semiconductor cooperation could support India’s ambitions to become a major technology manufacturing hub while offering Japanese companies greater opportunities to expand production and research partnerships.

Investment with Long-Term Vision

Japan has consistently been among India’s largest foreign investors, supporting projects ranging from industrial corridors to transport infrastructure.

During Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Tokyo in 2025, Japan committed to more than doubling its investment in India to over $61 billion over the next decade. Government figures also show bilateral trade reached approximately $27.5 billion during the 2025–26 financial year, while Japanese investment in India totalled around $3.2 billion between April and December 2025.

Around 1,400 Japanese companies already operate across India, with nearly half engaged in manufacturing. Their growing presence reflects increasing confidence in India’s industrial capabilities and expanding domestic market.

The India-Japan Business Forum scheduled alongside the summit is expected to explore fresh investment opportunities across manufacturing, finance, clean energy and advanced technologies.

Green Energy Becomes a Shared Priority

Energy security has emerged as another important pillar of bilateral cooperation.

Among the proposals expected to be discussed are investments in a large-scale green ammonia project in Odisha, expansion of biogas initiatives and stronger collaboration under the POWERR Asia initiative aimed at enhancing regional energy resilience.

Such projects align with both countries’ efforts to diversify energy sources while supporting broader climate and sustainability objectives.

Security Cooperation in an Uncertain Indo-Pacific

Economic cooperation represents only one dimension of the relationship.

India and Japan increasingly share strategic concerns regarding maritime security, supply chain stability and regional balance in the Indo-Pacific. Both nations are members of the Quad alongside the United States and Australia, a grouping that has expanded cooperation in areas ranging from disaster relief to critical technologies and maritime awareness.

Defence cooperation between New Delhi and Tokyo has also grown through joint military exercises, strategic dialogue and defence technology partnerships.

While the summit is not expected to announce dramatic military initiatives, continued cooperation reflects a broader commitment to maintaining a free, open and rules-based Indo-Pacific region.

Why This Visit Matters

The significance of Prime Minister Takaichi’s visit lies less in any single agreement and more in the direction it reinforces.

India and Japan are building a partnership designed to address long-term challenges from securing technology supply chains and accelerating industrial growth to promoting regional stability and sustainable energy transition.

For India, stronger ties with Japan bring investment, technology transfer and greater integration into global manufacturing networks. For Japan, India offers a rapidly growing economy, expanding industrial capacity and a trusted strategic partner in Asia.

As geopolitical competition intensifies and global supply chains continue to evolve, partnerships based on shared economic and strategic interests are becoming increasingly important.

The outcomes of this summit may therefore influence not only bilateral relations but also the broader economic and security landscape across the Indo-Pacific in the years ahead.

30 June 2026 0 comment

Blog Featured G7 India World

India to Highlight Global South Priorities at G7 Summit, Says Modi

by theparliamentnews.com 13 June 2026

written by theparliamentnews.com

Prime Minister Narendra Modi departed on Saturday, June 13, 2026, for a six-day visit to France and the Slovak Republic. The visit, which will continue until June 18, is expected to focus on strengthening bilateral ties, promoting innovation partnerships, and advancing India’s engagement with Europe and the G7 nations.

Before his departure, Prime Minister Modi said he would undertake the visit at the invitation of French President Emmanuel Macron and Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico.

“France occupies a special place in India’s strategic vision,” Mr. Modi said, highlighting the growing cooperation between the two countries. He noted that President Macron visited India earlier this year, during which both nations elevated their ties to a Special Global Strategic Partnership.

During his stay in France, Prime Minister Modi is scheduled to hold discussions with President Macron to review progress made since February and identify new areas of cooperation. A major highlight of the visit will be the inauguration of the ‘Bharat Innovates’ initiative in Nice on June 14.

According to the Prime Minister, the event is being organised as part of the India-France Year of Innovation and is aimed at connecting Indian start-ups with international investors and business leaders. The initiative is expected to strengthen collaboration in technology, innovation, entrepreneurship, and investment.

Following his engagements in France, Mr. Modi will travel to the Slovak Republic on June 14 and 15 for a state visit. The visit is significant as it will be the first by an Indian Prime Minister to independent Slovakia.

Prime Minister Modi said he looks forward to discussions with Slovak President Peter Pellegrini and Prime Minister Robert Fico in Bratislava. The talks are expected to focus on expanding bilateral cooperation in trade, investment, technology, and strategic partnerships.

The Prime Minister is also expected to interact with Slovak business leaders during the visit. He said the trip would help strengthen India’s partnership with the European Union, describing Slovakia as an important and valued member of the bloc.

After completing his engagements in Slovakia, Mr. Modi will return to France to participate in the G7 Summit in Evian on June 16 and 17. India has once again been invited to attend the summit as an outreach partner.

“India’s presence at the G7 reflects the trust our partners place in us and our growing global profile,” Mr. Modi said. He noted that this would be the eighth consecutive G7 Summit to which India has been invited.

The Prime Minister said India would use the platform not only to present its own perspectives but also to represent the interests and aspirations of developing countries.

“At the G7, India will not only speak for itself, but it will also give voice to the aspirations of the Global South,” he stated.

Reports indicate that Mr. Modi may also hold bilateral meetings with several world leaders attending the summit, including a possible interaction with U.S. President Donald Trump on the sidelines of the gathering.

The final leg of the visit will include participation in VivaTech 2026, one of Europe’s leading technology and innovation events. Prime Minister Modi is expected to attend the event alongside President Macron on June 18 before concluding his visit.

The Prime Minister expressed confidence that the visits would further strengthen India’s engagement with Europe and reinforce partnerships across multiple sectors.

“I am confident that my visits to France and the Slovak Republic will reinforce India’s deepening engagement with both Europe and the G7, and showcase our steadfast commitment to expanding the horizon of our partnerships with the continent and beyond,” he said.

The visit comes at a time when India is seeking deeper cooperation with European partners in areas including technology, innovation, trade, defence, and global governance, while continuing to strengthen its role on the international stage.

13 June 2026 0 comment

Blog Featured India Parliament

Cabinet Clears Draft Bill to Implement Women’s Reservation by 2029

by theparliamentnews.com 9 April 2026

written by theparliamentnews.com

The Union Cabinet has approved a draft amendment Bill aimed at operationalising the Women’s Reservation Act in time for the 2029 Lok Sabha elections.

The decision was taken at a Cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The proposed amendment seeks to revise the implementation framework of the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam, formally known as the Constitution (106th Amendment) Act, which was passed in 2023.

Expansion of Lok Sabha Strength

A key provision in the proposal is the expansion of the Lok Sabha from its current strength of 543 seats to 816 seats. This increase will follow a fresh delimitation exercise aimed at redrawing constituency boundaries.

One-Third Reservation for Women

Out of the expanded House, approximately one-third of the seats 273 in total are proposed to be reserved for women. The reservation will also apply within Scheduled Caste (SC) and Scheduled Tribe (ST) categories, ensuring representation across different social groups.

Delimitation Based on 2011 Census

In a departure from earlier provisions, the government plans to conduct delimitation based on the 2011 Census data, instead of waiting for updated population figures from a future Census.

This move is intended to expedite the implementation of women’s reservation, which under the existing framework was linked to the completion of a new Census and subsequent delimitation exercise.

Next Steps in Parliament

The amendment Bill is expected to be introduced and taken up for discussion during the extended sittings of the Budget Session scheduled from April 16 to April 18.

The proposed changes mark a significant step toward operationalising women’s reservation in Parliament, with implementation targeted ahead of the next general elections in 2029.

9 April 2026 0 comment

Blog Featured India World

India–Israel Ties in Focus as Modi Meets Netanyahu

by theparliamentnews.com 25 February 2026

written by theparliamentnews.com

Prime Minister Narendra Modi landed in Israel on Wednesday for talks with his counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu aimed at reviewing the India–Israel Strategic Partnership and identifying new opportunities for cooperation across multiple sectors, including science and technology.

The visit holds diplomatic significance. In 2017, Modi became the first Indian prime minister to visit Israel, marking a visible elevation in bilateral ties. The current visit comes shortly after India joined more than 100 countries at the United Nations in criticising Israel’s actions in the West Bank. New Delhi signed a joint statement after initially refraining from participating in a collective condemnation of settlement expansion.

Diplomatic and Strategic Background

India and Israel established full diplomatic relations in 1992. Since then, ties have expanded steadily, particularly over the past decade, with growing engagement in defence, trade, agriculture, water management, and advanced technologies.

Defence cooperation remains the cornerstone of the strategic partnership. According to data from the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), India accounted for over 38% of Israel’s arms exports between 2014 and 2024, making it one of Israel’s largest defence customers. Military hardware, surveillance systems, radar technologies, and precision-guided munitions form a key component of this engagement.

The partnership also aligns with India’s “Make in India” initiative, with Israeli defence and technology firms increasingly collaborating with Indian companies for local manufacturing and joint production.

Trade Trends and Economic Links

Bilateral trade between India and Israel has seen notable fluctuations in recent years. From approximately $200 million in 1992, trade volumes expanded significantly over three decades, peaking at over $10.7 billion in 2022–23.

However, trade declined to $6.5 billion in 2023–24 and further to $3.6 billion in 2024–25. The contraction has been attributed to war-related disruptions and challenges in trade routes.

Despite the recent slowdown, India has maintained a trade surplus with Israel since 2014–15. The surplus widened sharply to $6.1 billion in 2022–23 before narrowing to $2.5 billion in 2023–24 and further to $663 million in 2024–25.

Refined petroleum products such as petrol and diesel accounted for nearly 44% of India’s exports to Israel between 2019 and 2025, followed by diamonds at around 22%. The diamond trade remains structurally significant for both countries. India imports raw diamonds from Israel, cuts and polishes them domestically, and exports processed diamonds back to global markets.

On the import side, diamonds account for roughly one-third of India’s imports from Israel. Other key imports include mineral and chemical fertilisers, electronic integrated circuits, and radar apparatus.

Investment flows have also grown. Israel’s cumulative foreign direct investment (FDI) into India crossed $347 million between 2000 and September 2025, according to official data. Israeli firms have made more than 300 investments in India, primarily in the technology sector. Meanwhile, cumulative overseas direct investment (ODI) from India into Israel reached $443 million between April 2000 and April 2025, with Indian companies investing in cybersecurity, agriculture, water management, and electric mobility ventures.

Labour Mobility and Education

Migration and labour mobility form another important dimension of the relationship. As of 2024, approximately 32,715 Indians travelled to Israel, compared to around 27,196 in 2023.

Employment-driven migration has increased, particularly following the outbreak of the Gaza conflict. Official figures show that around 32,000 Indian workers were present in Israel as of October 2024, many recruited to fill labour shortages in the construction sector after Palestinian workers were displaced. These workers are primarily employed in construction-related roles.

In addition to labour migration, educational exchanges continue. Around 900 Indian students are currently studying in Israeli institutions, contributing to academic and research collaboration between the two countries.

Diplomatic Context

The timing of Modi’s visit is notable given recent developments at the United Nations concerning Israel’s policies in the West Bank. India’s decision to align with a joint statement criticising settlement expansion reflects a calibrated diplomatic approach balancing strategic partnership with Israel and broader multilateral commitments.

The discussions between the two leaders are expected to review progress in existing cooperation frameworks while exploring expanded engagement in emerging sectors such as artificial intelligence, innovation, and advanced manufacturing.

As India and Israel approach over three decades of formal diplomatic relations, the strategic partnership continues to evolve amid regional geopolitical shifts, trade realignments, and technological transformation.

25 February 2026 0 comment

Blog Featured India India Parliament

Speaker Says Opposition Prepared Unprecedented Protest in Lok Sabha

by theparliamentnews.com 6 February 2026

written by theparliamentnews.com

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Thursday said he had advised Prime Minister Narendra Modi not to come to the House on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, after receiving what he described as “definite information” that Opposition members were preparing to protest in an “unprecedented manner”.

Addressing the House before adjourning proceedings for the day, Mr. Birla said the behaviour witnessed in the Lok Sabha on Wednesday was unlike anything seen earlier. “With sadness I have to inform that some members displayed such behaviour in the House that had never been witnessed in its history,” the Speaker said.

The Prime Minister was scheduled to reply to the discussion on the Motion of Thanks to the President’s address at around 5 p.m. on Wednesday. However, the House was adjourned after women MPs from Opposition parties crossed the aisle and held banners in front of the Prime Minister’s designated seat.

The protests were linked to allegations made by BJP MP Nishikant Dubey against former Congress Prime Ministers. Following the disruption, the Motion of Thanks was passed by the House on Thursday, February 5, 2026, without the customary reply from the Prime Minister.

The Congress later indicated that it would allow the Prime Minister to speak only if Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi was also permitted to address the House.

Mr. Birla also reprimanded Opposition members for their conduct in his chamber after the House was adjourned until 5 p.m. on Wednesday. Congress MPs had met the Speaker to question the Chair’s decision to allow Mr. Dubey’s remarks and demanded action against him.

By late evening, the Speaker’s office expunged several objectionable remarks from the official records of the House.

The developments reflect continuing tensions between the government and the Opposition during the ongoing parliamentary session, with repeated disruptions affecting legislative business.

6 February 2026 0 comment

Newer Posts

Older Posts

Narendra Modi

PM Modi Marks 76th Birthday With SEMICON India 2026 Inauguration

World Environment Council Successfully Conducted National Webinar on Sustainability and Environmental Literacy for Next Generation

Education Ministry Gets New Leadership as Pralhad Joshi Takes Charge

What is Rule 267? The Rajya Sabha Procedure at the Centre of Opposition’s Demand

What is Rule 267?

Why Did the Opposition Seek Rule 267?

Continued Deadlock in Parliament

How Often Has Rule 267 Been Used?

Is There a Similar Rule in the Lok Sabha?

India–New Zealand Trade: What the Numbers Tell Us Ahead of PM Modi’s Visit

A Relationship Built on More Than Goods

The Trade Agreement in Context

Which Sectors Could Benefit?

Looking Beyond Trade

What the Numbers Suggest

Why the India-Japan Partnership Is Entering a New Strategic Phase

From Economic Partners to Strategic Allies

Technology Takes Centre Stage

Investment with Long-Term Vision

Green Energy Becomes a Shared Priority

Security Cooperation in an Uncertain Indo-Pacific

Why This Visit Matters

India to Highlight Global South Priorities at G7 Summit, Says Modi

Cabinet Clears Draft Bill to Implement Women’s Reservation by 2029

Expansion of Lok Sabha Strength

One-Third Reservation for Women

Delimitation Based on 2011 Census

Next Steps in Parliament

India–Israel Ties in Focus as Modi Meets Netanyahu

Speaker Says Opposition Prepared Unprecedented Protest in Lok Sabha

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