India-Israel Pact to Revolutionize Sustainable Farming
New Delhi: India and Israel have signed a historic agreement on sustainable agricultural technologies, marking a significant milestone in their bilateral cooperation. The agreement was formalized through the exchange of licensing agreements between ATGC Biotech Pvt. Ltd. (India) and Luxembourg Industries Ltd. (Israel), establishing Semiophore Ltd., a 50:50 Indo-Israeli Joint Venture.
The joint venture aims to globally commercialize pheromone and semiochemical technologies pioneered in India, making it the first-ever out-licensing of Indian semiochemical technology to Israel. The agreement was announced at the valedictory session of the First International Science & Technology (S&T) Clusters Conference held at the Dr. Ambedkar International Centre.
Fares Saeb, Deputy Chief of Mission of Israel to India, said, “Israel and India share a long-standing partnership in agriculture and technology. Today’s licensing exchange is an important milestone that strengthens our collaboration in sustainable, climate-resilient solutions.”
The Semiophore venture will manufacture and commercialize 18 Indian-developed technologies, including ultra-low-dose pheromone dispensers, mating disruption platforms, and advanced controlled-release systems. These solutions are designed to reduce insecticide use by more than 80%, supporting global transitions toward green chemistry, behavioral pest control, and net-zero agriculture.
Dr. Markandeya Gorantla, Chairman & Managing Director, ATGC Biotech, stated, “This is a defining moment for India’s bioeconomy. For the first time, Indian semiochemical technologies will be manufactured and commercialized in Israel.”
The agreement is expected to strengthen Indo-Israel partnerships in advanced agriculture and contribute to the global effort to promote sustainable agricultural practices.
