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India PM | February 26, 2026: Your Essential Daily Briefing on India's Prime Minister
The India PM Newsletter for February 26, 2026 covers India-Israel agreement on ‘Special Strategic Partnership for Peace, Innovation and Prosperity’, PM Modi-Netanyahu reaffirming resolve to combat terrorism, PM inviting Israeli President to visit India, Netanyahu surprising PM Modi, PM paying tribute at Yad Vashem Holocaust memorial, India-Israel inking several MoUs with 10 announcements, PM scheduled to address post-budget webinar, PM Modi becoming first political leader with 100M Instagram followers, PM paying tribute to Veer Savarkar, and condoling passing of strategic analyst Maroof Raza.
NEWS IN DETAIL
India, Israel Agree For ‘Special Strategic Partnership for Peace, Innovation and Prosperity’
PM Modi Holds Talks With Israeli Counterpart Netanyahu
Prime Minister Narendra Modi held talks with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Jerusalem on February 26, 2026.
The two Prime Ministers engaged in comprehensive discussions covering the entire gamut of the India-Israel partnership.
Reflecting the deep trust and friendship between the two countries, the leaders decided to elevate the bilateral relationship to a “Special Strategic Partnership for Peace, Innovation and Prosperity”.
This elevation is emblematic of the growing convergence of interests and the shared vision of both countries for a secure and prosperous future, the PMO said.
Both leaders expressed satisfaction at the progress made in bilateral cooperation across all domains and agreed to further expand collaboration in the fields of trade and investment, defence and security, space, energy, critical technologies, cyber security, education, scientific research and innovation.
They also emphasised the transformative potential of the India-Israel partnership in agriculture, water management, start-ups, fintech, digital healthcare, biotechnology and advanced pharma. The two leaders welcomed the new initiatives to expand mobility partnership, which would give a further boost to people-to-people ties.
Calling for early conclusion of the proposed Free Trade Agreement, they noted that the Bilateral Investment Treaty, India-Israel Innovation Bridge, India-Israel Innovation Centre for Agriculture and India-Israel Industrial R&D and Innovation Fund would significantly enhance economic, entrepreneurial and scientific collaborations between the two countries.
They also called for greater collaboration in the fields of AI, Semiconductors, Quantum and other cutting-edge technologies, synergising India’s talented workforce and Israel’s innovation.
The two leaders also discussed regional and global issues of mutual interest. Prime Minister conveyed his support for the Gaza Peace Plan and hoped that the initiative would bring peace and stability to the region. The two leaders also called for closer cooperation between the two countries on IMEC and I2U2 initiatives. They also expressed their resolve to strengthen the global fight against terrorism.
Prime Minister Modi thanked Prime Minister Netanyahu for the support extended by Israel in India’s fight against terrorism.
Following the talks, several agreements and Memoranda of Understanding were exchanged. A Joint Statement outlining the future course of action for the bilateral partnership was adopted on the occasion of the State Visit.
Prime Minister Modi thanked Prime Minister Netanyahu for his warmth and hospitality.
PM Modi, PM Netanyahu Reaffirm Resolve To Combat Terrorism
Both Leaders Reiterate Commitment To Advance Global Peace And Security
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu unequivocally and strongly condemned terrorism, in all its forms and manifestations including cross-border terrorism, said the India-Israel Joint Statement.
They called for decisive and concerted international efforts to combat terrorism in a comprehensive and sustained manner. Expressing the grave concern over this common challenge, the Prime Ministers reaffirmed their collective resolve to combat this menace as the leaders of two vibrant and resilient democracies, it added.
They strongly condemned the heinous October 7, 2023 terror attack on Israel, the savage terror attack on Indian tourists at Pahalgam in Jammu & Kashmir in India on April 22, 2025 and the terror incident near Red Fort, New Delhi on November 10, 2025.
Prime Minister Modi and Prime Minister Netanyahu reiterated their unwavering commitment to advancing global peace and security and welcomed US President Donald Trump’s “Comprehensive Plan to End the Gaza Conflict.”
The two leaders discussed the regional developments, including the peace process, and underlined the need for the establishment of a just and durable peace, security and freedom of navigation and trade in the region through dialogue and mutual understanding.
Speaking during the Joint Press Statement with Prime Minister of Israel, PM Modi said, “We have stood shoulder to shoulder in opposing terrorism and those who support it, and we will continue to do so.
Peace and stability in West Asia are directly linked to India’s security interests. Therefore, from the very beginning, we have supported dialogue and a peaceful resolution of issues. This is the call of the Global South and of humanity as a whole.”
He further added: “India’s position is clear: Humanity must never become a victim of conflict. The Gaza Peace Plan has opened a pathway towards peace. India has extended its full support to these efforts. In the future as well, we will continue to engage in dialogue and cooperation with all countries.”
PM Modi Invites Israeli President To Visit India
Prime Minister Narendra Modi called on President of Israel Isaac Herzog, in Jerusalem, and invited him to visit India.
The two leaders noted that the elevation of India-Israel ties to a “Special Strategic Partnership for Peace, Innovation and Prosperity” marks a new beginning in bilateral ties and is reflective of the deep trust, shared democratic values and special friendship between the two countries.
The two leaders expressed satisfaction at the ongoing cooperation in the fields of trade and technology, innovation and enterprise, defence and security, and counter terrorism.
The two leaders also discussed regional issues of mutual interest. Expressing support for the Gaza Peace Plan, Prime Minister Modi conveyed his satisfaction at the progress being made with the initiative to achieve peace and stability in West Asia.
Prime Minister Modi thanked President Herzog for his warmth and hospitality and for his support to the India-Israel partnership. He also invited President Herzog “to visit not just Delhi but also other parts of India”.
One Tree for Mother
In a special gesture, reflecting the shared values of both nations to nurture the environment, Prime Minister, along with President Herzog and the First Lady, planted a tree in the President’s garden under the Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam (One Tree for Mother) initiative.
Netanyahu Surprises PM Modi
Prime Minister of Israel Benjamin Netanyahu surprised Prime Minister Narendra Modi by wearing traditional Indian attire before their joint dinner.
Prime Minister of Israel Benjamin Netanyahu shared a post on X and wrote, “Before our joint dinner, I surprised my friend Prime Minister Narendra Modi by wearing traditional Indian attire.”
Prime Minister Modi Pays Tribute At Yad Vashem In Israel
On the concluding day of his two-day state visit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Yad Vashem, Israel’s official Holocaust memorial, accompanied by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Yad Vashem Chairman Dani Dayan.
The leaders toured the Book of Names, documenting 4.8 million Jewish victims, and participated in a memorial ceremony at the Hall of Remembrance.
Prime Minister Modi laid a wreath, observed a moment of silence, and signed the guest book. This marks his second visit to Yad Vashem, underscoring India-Israel solidarity against hatred.
India, Israel Ink Several MoUs, Make 10 Announcements
Prime Minister Narendra Modi made a state visit to Israel on February 25-26, 2026 at the invitation of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
During the visit, India and Israel inked several Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) and made ten announcements.
MoU on co-operation in the field of geophysical exploration
The MoU enhances India–Israel cooperation in mineral exploration using advanced geophysical and AI technologies, promoting data sharing, investment, and sustainable resource development.
MoU for development of National Maritime Heritage Complex (NMHC), Lothalat Gujarat
The MoU promotes India–Israel collaboration to celebrate shared maritime heritage through exhibitions, research, publications, and expertise exchange, supporting the National Maritime Heritage Complex and wider public engagement.
Cultural Exchange Programme for the period 2026-2029
The CEP fosters India–Israel cultural ties through exchanges in music, theatre, visual arts, dance, and other creative fields via festivals, workshops, and expert visits, deepening mutual understanding.
MoU between NPCI International (NIPL) and MASAV, Israel on implementation of UPI
The MoU aims to enable cross-border remittances between India and Israel via the Unified Payments Interface (UPI).
MoU between ICAR and MASHAV on establishment of the India-Israel Innovation Centre for Agriculture (IINCA)
The MoU establishes a Joint Innovation Centre at ICAR to develop next-generation agricultural technologies—such as precision farming, satellite-based irrigation, advanced machinery, and integrated pest management—and support germplasm exchange, demonstrations, post-harvest solutions, and capacity-building.
Declaration of Intent on cooperation in the field of Horizon Scanning
The DoI fosters India–Israel collaboration in advanced horizon scanning to strengthen strategic foresight, risk assessment, and technology planning through joint research, capacity building and AI-driven tools.
MoU on Cooperation in the field of Fisheries and Aquaculture
The MoU enhances India–Israel cooperation in sustainable, technology-driven fisheries and aquaculture—covering advanced systems, disease management, mariculture, and seaweed—through R&D, trade, training, innovation, and Centre of Excellence.
MoU between International Financial Services Centres Authority (IFSCA) and Israel Securities Authority (ISA)
The Authorities aim to advance cooperation in financial services through information exchange, best practices, fintech and regtech collaboration, and updates on key sector developments to foster an innovation-driven ecosystem.
Implementation Protocol on Labour Mobility in Commerce and Services Sector
The Protocol enables Indian workers to access employment in Israel through regulated channels across sectors like retail, cleaning, logistics, warehousing, food processing, hospitality, and recycling.
Implementation Protocol on Labour Mobility in Manufacturing Sector
It covers recruitment across various manufacturing industries, including textiles, metals, electronics, chemicals, food processing, wood and paper, plastics, rubber, and other industrial sectors.
Implementation Protocol on Labour Mobility in Restaurant Sector
It covers recruitment in restaurants, cafés, and other food preparation and sales businesses.
MoU on the Cooperation in advancing Education through the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI)
The cooperation focuses on developing AI-powered, human-centered learning—covering innovative pedagogy, teacher development, regulatory frameworks, equitable AI access, research exchange, and integrating AI and data literacy for inclusive, future-ready education.
Agreement on Cooperation between Israeli Institute of Commercial Arbitration (IICA) and Indian Council of Arbitration (ICA)
The Agreement promotes cooperation in arbitration and mediation through knowledge exchange, best practices, and joint training to strengthen expertise in both countries.
Presentation of Report of the 4th India-Israel CEO Forum
The fourth CEOs Forum was held in Israel in November 2025 and a Joint Report was presented to the Governments of both sides. The Report provides insights and recommendations to align policies with industry trends, promote public-private collaboration, and support informed economic decision-making.
MoU between Nalanda University and the Hebrew University of Jerusalem (HUJI)
The MoU establishes a framework for faculty and student exchanges between the two universities in a range of disciplines, including Buddhist studies, archaeology, mathematics, and international relations.
Letter of Intent on establishment of Indo-Israel Cyber Centre of Excellence in India
The LoI establishes a Joint Cyber Centre of Excellence in India to showcase cybersecurity best practices, emerging technologies, and digital resilience, fostering collaboration among government, industry, and academia.
MoU on cooperation in Artificial Intelligence (AI)
The MoU promotes collaboration in AI development and capacity building, supporting ethical AI, applications in civilian sectors, academic research, and public–private partnerships for sustainable growth.
10 Announcements
Elevation of relationship to Special Strategic Partnership
JCM on Science and Technology elevated to Ministerial level
Initiative to collaborate in Critical and Emerging Technologies led by National Security Advisors
Financial Dialogue
Tech-Gateway Initiative
20 Joint Fellowships in Agricultural Research
Increase of contribution of both sides for the Joint Research Calls
Quota of up to 50,000 Indian workers over the next 5 years.
India-Israel Academic Cooperation Forum
India- Israel Parliamentary Friendship Group
PM To Address Post Budget Webinar
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address the Post Budget Webinar on “Technology, Reforms and Finance for Viksit Bharat” on 27th February 27, 2026 at around 11:30 AM via video conferencing.
The webinar will entail discussions on public capex, infrastructure, banking sector reforms, financial sector architecture, deepening capital markets, and ease of living through tax reforms.
The webinar is the first in a series of Post Budget Webinars being organised on key themes emerging from the Union Budget 2026–27.
These webinars aim to draw lessons from past experiences and obtain structured feedback from participants to strengthen and ensure outcome-oriented implementation of the Budget announcements for FY 2026-27, drawing upon the practical experience and insights of diverse stakeholders.
They will bring together stakeholders from industry, financial institutions, market participants, Government, industry regulators and academia to deliberate on effective implementation pathways for key Budget announcements.
PM Modi Becomes First Political Leader To Have 100M Instagram Followers
Prime Minister Narendra Modi became the first international leader and politician to attain the 100 million-follower milestone on Instagram on February 26, 2026.
PM Narendra Modi joined Instagram in 2014 and currently has more than twice as many followers as US President Donald Trump.
US President Donald Trump holds the second spot with 43.2 million followers. Following him are President Prabowo Subianto of Indonesia with 15 million followers, Brazilian President Lula with 14.4 million followers, Turkish President Erdogan with 11.6 million followers and Argentine President Javier Milei with 6.4 million followers.
The total count of followers of the next five major world leaders is lower than PM Narendra Modi’s individual follower count.
PM Modi’s account is one of the most engaging digital spaces for world leaders over the last 10 years.
PM Pays Tribute to Veer Savarkar
Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid humble tributes to the great revolutionary Veer Savarkar on his Punya Tithi (Death Anniversary)
In a message honouring the freedom fighter, the Prime Minister stated that Savarkar dedicated his life to freeing the country from the chains of slavery.
He further remarked that Veer Savarkar’s personality and work will continue to inspire every generation for national service.
The Prime Minister wrote on X: “Humble tribute to the great revolutionary Veer Savarkar on his Punya Tithi. He dedicated his life to freeing the country from the chains of slavery. His personality and work will continue to inspire every generation for national service.”
Prime Minister Condoles Passing Of Maroof Raza
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed grief over the passing of Maroof Raza, honouring his legacy in the field of journalism.
The Prime Minister posted on X: “Shri Maroof Raza Ji made a rich contribution to the world of journalism. He enriched public discourse with his nuanced understanding of defence, national security as well as strategic affairs. Pained by his passing. Condolences to his family and friends”