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The youth of the nation has benefitted by the space sector reforms: PM Modi during Mann Ki Baat

Published By : Admin | August 25, 2024 | 11:30 IST
The youth of the nation has benefitted by the space sector reforms: PM Modi
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Today, there is a growing interest in Sanskrit both in India and globally: PM Modi
Children’s nutrition is a priority for the country: PM Modi

My dear countrymen, Namaskar. All my family members are welcome once again in Mann Ki Baat.

Today, once again, we will touch upon the accomplishments of the Country and the collective efforts of the country men. A lot is happening in Bharat of the 21st century that is strengthening the foundation of a developed Bharat. For instance, on the 23rd of August, the countrymen celebrated the first National Space Day. I do believe that all of you must have celebrated this Day; once again celebrating the success of Chandrayan-3. Last year, on this day, Chandrayan -3 had made a successful landing on the southern part of the moon at the Shiv-Shakti point. India became the first nation of the world to achieve this pride filled accomplishment.

Friends, the youth of the Nation has also benefitted a lot by the Space Sector reforms, that’s why in today’s Mann ki Baat I thought... why not speak to some of our young friends associated with the space sector. A team from Spacetech Start-Up GalaxEye is connecting with me now. This Start-up was launched by the alumni of IIT -Madras. Suyash, Daniel, Rakshit, Kishan and Praneet, all of them are now connected with us on the phone line. Come lets know about the experiences of these youngsters.

Prime Minister: Hello!

All Youngters: Hello!

Prime Minister: Namaste ji!

All Youngters: Namaskar Sir!

Prime Minister: Well friends, I feel very happy to see that your friendship during IIT-Madras is still going strong. This is the reason that you thought of starting GalaxEye together. I also want to know about that subject too. Tell us about that. Also tell us how the country is going to be benefitted with your technology.

Suyash: Yes Sir my name is Suyash... as you said, we all met, all of us met at IIT-Madras. We all studied there during different years, did our engineering. And at that time we thought about a project named Hyperloop, that’s what we wanted to do together. During that time we started a team named Avishkar Hyperloop, we took that to America as well. That year, ours was the only team from Asia that went there and waved our National flag there. And we were among the top 20 teams out of around 1500 teams from around the world.

Prime Minister: Well, before listening anymore, let me first congratulate you for this.

Suyash: Many many thanks to you. Our friendship forged deep during that achievement and built our confidence to take up difficult and tough projects like this one. During that time after looking at SpaceX and what you opened up, privatization in the space sector in 2020 in that landmark decision... we got pretty excited about that. And I would like to invite Rakshit to speak on what we are building up and what its uses are.

Rakshit: Ji, my name is Rakshit and I will answer about how we are going to be benefitted with this technology.

Prime Minister: Rakshit, where in Uttarakhand are you from ?

Rakshit: Sir, I am from Almorha.

Prime Minister: So you are a Baal Mithhaai wala

Rakshit: Yes Sir, Yes Sir, Baal Mithhaai is our Favourite.

Prime Minister: You know Lakshya Sen, he regularly treats me with baal mithhaai. Yes Rakshit, tell me.

Rakshit: So this technology of ours can see through the clouds in the Universe even during the night, so daily we can click a clear image of our country from any corner of the country. And that data we will use to work in the development of two areas; the first is, to make India very safe; we will daily monitor our Borders, our oceans and Seas. We will monitor the enemy’s activities and provide the intelligence to our Armed forces. And the second is to strengthen the farmers of Bharat. So we have already developed a product for the Prawn farmers of Bharat that can measure the water quality of their ponds from Space at one tenth of the current cost. And in future we wish to generate the best quality satellite images for the world in the fight against global issues like Global warming; we wish to provide the best quality satellite data to the world.

Prime Minister: This means your team will echo the essence of Jai Jawan as well as Jai Kisan too.

Rakshit: Yes sir, absolutely.

Prime Minister: Friends, you are doing such good work, I would also like to know about the magnitude of the precision of this technology.

Rakshit: Sir we can reach a resolution of less than 50 cm and. We’ll be able to image approximately more than 300 square km area at one time.

Prime Minister: So, I feel that when our countrymen will hear this, they will feel very proud. But I would like to ask one more question.

Rakshit: Yes, Sir

Prime Minister: The Space ecosystem is becoming very vibrant. Now, what changes are being observed by your team?

Kishan: My name is Kishan. After the start of Galax eye we have seen the coming in of IN-SPACE. Also we have seen lots of policies coming like the ‘geo-spatial data policy’ and India Space Policy. Also from the last 3 years we have seen many changes coming... alongwith many processes, a lot of infrastructure and many facilities of ISRO are available in a very nice way like we can go to ISRO and do testing of our hardware. This can now be done in a very easy way. 3 years ago these processes were not there and this has been very helpful for us and also for many more start ups. Also because of recent FDI policies and availability of these facilities many start-ups are getting enough incentive and such start-ups can very easily and in a very nice way develop, in the field where usually development is very costly and time consuming. Since the advent of current policies and INSPACE things have been easy for start-ups. My friend Daniel Chawda would like to speak on this.

Prime Minister: Daniel, tell me.

Daniel: Sir, we have observed one more thing, we have seen a change in the thinking of engineering students. Previously they preferred going abroad to pursue higher studies and work there in the space domain, but now since a very good Space ecosystem is developing very well in India, they want to come back to India to be part of this eco system... So this is a very good feedback we have received and in our own company some people have returned and started working because of this.

Prime Minister: I feel that the aspects you two Kishan & Daniel have touched upon, I definitely feel many people might not have noticed, how reform in one field has multiple effects... Many people are benefitted... and as per your description, because you are from this field, you must have noticed and also observed that the youth of the country desires to try their future in this field here itself, and utilise their talent. Yours is a very good observation.

One more question I would like to ask is, what message would you like to give to those youth who want to achieve success in start-ups and the Space sector.

Pranit: Sir, I am Pranit speaking and I will answer the question.

Prime Minister: Yes Pranit, tell me.

Pranit: Sir, I would like to say two things from my experience of a few years. Firstly if we want to establish a start-up, then this is the opportunity because today India has the fastest growing economy in the world, which means that we have a lot of opportunities...

Pranit: ...like at the age of 24 I feel proud thinking that next year we will launch our own satellite. Based on that, our government will take a few major decisions and we have made a small contribution in this. To get to work for such projects of National Impact, this is such industry and such a time, given that today now the space industry is commencing. So, i would like to tell my young friends this is the opportunity not just for impact but also for self financial growth and to solve a global problem. So we talk to each other that when we were young we used to say that we will become actor, sportsmen when we grow up... things like that, but now if we listen to somebody saying that I want to become an entrepreneur, work in the Space industry after growing up, this is an extremely proud moment that we are playing a small part in this whole transformation.

Prime Minister: Friends, Pranit, Kishan, Daniel, Rakshit and Suyush, in a way, your start-up is as strong as your friendship. That’s why you are doing such wonderful work. I had the opportunity to visit IIT-Madras a few years ago and I myself experienced the excellence of that institute. Also for IIT, there is a feeling of respect in the whole world and their passouts, when they work for India, definitely contribute something good. Many good wishes to all of you and other start ups working in the Space sector. I really liked talking to all five of you. Thanks a lot friends.

Suyush: Thank you So much!

My dear countrymen, this year from Red Fort, I have urged one Lakh Youth who are not from a Political background to connect with the political system. This point of mine has garnered tremendous response. We thus come to know that a large number of our youth are eagerly ready to enter politics. All they are looking for is the right opportunity and apt guidance. I have also received letters from youth across the country on this subject. Enormous response is being received on social media as well. People have sent me many kinds of suggestions. Some youth have written in their letters that it is truly inconceivable for them. On account of the absence of a political legacy on part of their grandfather or parents they could not enter politics despite wanting to. Some youth have written that they possess a good experience of working at the ground level. Hence they can be helpful in solving people’s problems. Some youth have also written that dynastic politics crushes new talent. Some youth have mentioned that such efforts will lend more strength to our democracy. I thank each & everyone for sending in suggestions on the subject. I hope that now with our collective efforts, youth who do not possess a political background will also be able to come forward in Politics...their experience and their fervour will prove useful for the country.

Friends, even during the freedom struggle, many such people had come forward, who did not have any political background. They took the plunge for the sake of India’s Freedom. Once more, we require the same spirit to attain the goal of Vikasit Bharat. I shall urge all my young friends to positively join this campaign. This step of yours will be transformative in terms of your future and the country’s future.

My dear countrymen, this time, the campaign HAR GHAR TIRANGA and POORA DESH TIRANGA attained its full height. Amazing pictures connected with the campaign from all over the country have come to the fore. We saw the Tricolour fluttering atop houses, as well as at schools, colleges and Universities. Some people had the Tricolour adorn their shops, offices... people also did the same on their Desktops, Mobiles and Vehicles. When people join hands to express a sentiment, it thus lends unparalled glory to any campaign. The visuals that you are watching right now on your TV screens are from Reasi in Jammu and Kashmir.

A Tiranga rally, bearing a 750 metre long Flag was organized ... this rally was taken out on the Chenab Railway Bridge, the tallest in the world. Whoever viewed these pictures, their hearts swooned with delight. We all saw captivating pictures of the Tiranga Yatra on the Dal Lake in Srinagar. A yatra with a 600 feet long Tiranga was carried out in East Kameng District in Arunachal Pradesh. On similar lines, in other States of the country as well, people of all ages participated in such Tiranga Yatras. You too must have experienced that Independence Day now is turning into a social festival. People festoon their homes with Tricolour strands. Women connected with Self Help Groups craft lakhs of flags.

On ecommerce platforms, items coloured in the hues of the tricolour witness a surge in sales. On the occasion of Independence Day, all three colour of our flag were visible in every nook & corner across the country... on land, sea & air ! On the website of HAR GHAR TIRANGA, more than five crore selfies were posted. This campaign wove the entire country into a thread of togetherness and this exactly is what EK BHARAT SHRESTH BHARAT is.

My dear countrymen, you must have seen many films based on the bond of love between human beings and animals. But these days, a real story is coming up in Assam. In a tiny village Barekuri in the Tinsukia district of Assam, people belonging to the Moran community reside. And in the same village dwell the Hoolock Gibbons... there they are called “Holo Bandar”. Hoolock Gibbons have made this village their abode. You will be surprised to know- the people of this village share a deep bond with the Hoolock Gibbons. Villagers adhere to their traditional values in the present times as well. That’s why they left no stone unturned to strengthen their bonds with the gibbons. When they realised that Gibbons love bananas a lot, they started growing bananas on their farms. Besides, they decided that they would perform rituals connected with the birth and death of Gibbons, exactly as they would have performed for their near and dear ones. They have also named the Gibbons. Recently, the Gibbons were facing hardships on account of electric wires passing through, in the vicinity. In this scenario, the villagers put forth the problem to the government and a quick solution was found out too. I have been told that now these Gibbons also pose for pictures.

Friends, in terms of love towards animals, our young friends from Arunachal Pradesh too are second to none. Some of our young friends in Arunachal have started using the 3-D printing technology. Do you know why? Because they want to protect wild animals from being hunted for their horns and tusks... Under the leadership of Nabam Bapu and Likha Nana, the team undertakes 3-D printing of various parts of animals. Be it horns or teeth, all of those are crafted through 3-D printing. They are then made into items such as apparel and headgear. This is an amazing alternative which makes use of Bio-degradable material.

No amount of praise for such fabulous efforts is enough. I would like to say that more and more start-ups should come forward in this field so that our animals stay protected and traditions continue.

My dear countrymen, in Jhabua, Madhya Pradesh something splendid is taking place, that you should certainly know about. There, our sanitation worker brothers and sisters have performed a marvellous task. These brothers and sisters have shown us the essence of the message of WASTE to WEALTH turn into reality. In a park at Jhabua, this team has created wonderful artworks out of garbage. For this endeavour of theirs, they collected plastic waste, used bottles, tyres and pipes from the neighbourhood. Included in this artwork are helicopters, cars and cannons. Beautiful hanging flower pots too have been crafted. Here, used tyres have been turned into creating comfortable benches. This team of sanitation workers have adhered to the Mantra of Reduce, Reuse and Recycle. Owing to their efforts, the park has started appearing remarkably beautiful. Apart from local residents, people living in neighbouring districts too are reaching there to have a look.

Friends, I am happy to note that today, many start-ups in our country too are involving themselves in efforts with an aim to promote the environment. There is a team called e-conscious, that is using plastic waste to craft out eco friendly products. This idea struck them on seeing litter spread around at our tourist places, especially in hilly areas. A team comprising of like-minded people have begun a startup named Ecokaari. They produce myriad beautiful items out of plastic waste.

Friends, Toy Recycling is another such field where we can work together. You too are aware of the fact that whereas many children get bored of their toys within no time, there are children as well for whom such toys are a pipedream. Toys that your children no longer play with... you can give them away to spaces, where they continue being useful. That too, is a good path towards protecting the environment. When we strive together, it will certainly strengthen the environment, taking the country forward.

My dear countrymen, just a few days ago, on the 19th of August, we celebrated the festival of Rakshabandhan. On that very day, World Sanskrit Day was celebrated globally. Even today, a special inclination towards Sanskrit can be observed within the country and equally the world over. In many countries of the world, a variety of research and experimentation is being carried out in the realm of the Sanskrit language. Before I move further, I am playing a short audio clip for you

Friends, this audio is connected with a European country Lithuania. Vytis Vidunas a professor there has embarked upon a unique endeavour... He has named it SANSKRIT ON THE RIVERS. A group comprising a few people came together on the banks of the Neris river and performed recitation of the Vedas and the Gita there. Such endeavours have been continuing there over the past few years. You too, should try and bring forward such efforts which promote the Sanskrit Language.

My dear countrymen, fitness is extremely important in our lives. To be fit, we have to keep paying attention to our diet, our lifestyles... everything. In order to make people aware on Fitness, the Fit India campaign was launched. For the sake of staying healthy, people are embracing Yoga, irrespective of age or class. People have started according a place to superfood millets, also know as Shrianna, in their thalis. The objective behind all these efforts is precisely to ensure that every member of the family stays fit and healthy.

Friends our family, our society and our country....including their future, depends on the health of our children... and for the sake of their health, it’s imperative that they keep receiving adequate nutrition. Children’s nutrition is a priority for the country. In fact, we pay attention towards their nutrition during the entire year but there is one particular month that is dedicated to focus, especially on this matter. For this, every year, Nutrition Month is celebrated from the 1st of September to the 30th of September.

In order to enhance awareness on nutrition, Nutrition Fairs, Anaemia camps, home visits for newborn babies, seminars, webinars... many such means are made use of. At numerous places, under the aegis of Anganwadi, Mother and child committees have been established. This committee tracks malnutritioned children, pregnant women and newborn babies... it continuously keeps monitoring them, ensuring arrangements for their nutrition. Last year, the Poshan Abhiyan was linked with the New Education Policy. Through the campaign Poshan Bhi, Padhai Bhi, balanced development of the children has been focussed upon.

You too should certainly connect yourselves with campaigns pertaining to awareness about nutrition. A tiny effort on your part, will help a lot in the fight again malnutrition.

My dear countrymen, that’s all this time in Mann Ki Baat. Conversing with you in Mann Ki Baat always fills me up with a lot of joy. It feels like I am sharing my thoughts with my family members in an informal manner...that I am connecting with your hearts! Your feedback, your suggestions are extremely valuable for me. Many festivals are round the corner. For them, I extend many greetings to all of you.

There is the festive occasion of Janmashtami as well. In the beginning of next month Ganesh Chaturthi too is there. The festival of Onam also is about to arrive. I extend my greetings on Milad-Un –Nabi also.

Friends, this month on the 29th is Telugu Bhasha Diwas, as well. Its truly an amazing language. I extend good wishes to Telugu speakers across the world on Telugu Bhasha Diwas.

Prapanch Vyaaptanga Unn
Telugu Variki
Telegu Bhasha Dinotsav Shubhaakaankshalu

Friends I shall urge you once again to take precaution in the rainy season...and alongwith that be part of the Catch the Rain Movement...I would also like to remind all of you the EK PED MAAN KE NAAM campaign.. Plant more and more trees and urge others also to do so. In the next few days the Paralympics are about to begin in Paris. Our divyang brothers and sisters have reached there. 140 crore Indians are cheering for our athletes and players. You too also encourage our players with #Cheer4bharat”. We will again connect next month and discuss a lot of subjects. Till then, I take leave of you.

Many thanks, Namaskar.

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India-Netherlands Joint Statement on the visit of Prime Minister of India to Netherlands
May 17, 2026

At the invitation of the Prime Minister of the Netherlands, Mr. Rob Jetten, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi paid an official visit to the Netherlands on 16-17 May 2026. This marked Prime Minister Modi’s second visit to Netherlands.

In the morning of May 16, Prime Minister Modi was hosted by Their Majesties King Willem Alexander and Queen Maxima of the Netherlands at the Royal Palace Huis ten Bosch in the Hague for a bilateral meeting. Their Majesties also hosted a luncheon for Prime Minister Modi.

Prime Minister Jetten and Prime Minister Modi met for restricted and delegation level talks, followed by a dinner in the evening of May 16. Both Prime Ministers recalled the longstanding and historical trade linkages, deep rooted people-to-people ties and robust bilateral relations between the two countries and expressed their desire for further expanding and deepening this multifaceted relationship. In this context, the two leaders noted with satisfaction the progress achieved in recent years across various cooperation programmes through regular interactions, including at the highest political level and through the fruitful collaboration during India’s Presidency of the G20 in 2023 and the AI Impact Summit in New Delhi in February 2026.

Acknowledging the strong momentum in the relationship and the growing convergences between the two countries, the two leaders decided to elevate the relations between India and the Netherlands to a 'Strategic Partnership'. In this context, they welcomed the adoption of a Strategic Partnership Roadmap under which both sides agreed to work through regular and structured cooperation in all areas, including political, trade and investment, defence & security cooperation, cyber security, critical & emerging technologies including semiconductors, space, AI & quantum system, science & innovation, sustainability, health, sustainable agriculture and food systems, water management, climate change and energy transition, sustainable transport, maritime development, education, culture and people-to-people ties. The two sides also agreed to explore exchanges in the domain of policy planning.

Both leaders welcomed in this regard the agreements concluded in December 2025 across different priority sectors, such as on defence, semiconductors and related emerging technologies, enhanced cooperation in digital and cyberspace, collaboration in pharmaceuticals and medical devices, the establishment of a Joint Trade and Investment Committee, as well as the cooperation between the maritime museums in Lothal and Amsterdam.

The two leaders noted the Pact for the Future and reaffirmed their commitment to upholding shared values and principles including democracy, human rights, international peace and security, and a rules-based international order in line with the purposes and principles of the UN Charter. Both governments also underscored their commitment to strengthen and reform the multilateral system including expansion of both permanent and non-permanent categories of membership of the UN Security Council to reflect contemporary realities and called for text-based negotiations within a fixed timeframe. Prime Minister Modi thanked Prime Minister Jetten for the continued Dutch support to India’s permanent membership of a reformed and expanded UN Security Council.

Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to further deepen the India-EU Strategic Partnership and welcomed in this regard the conclusion of negotiations for a mutually beneficial India-EU Free Trade Agreement in January this year. They agreed that the free trade agreement will strengthen political and economic ties between the world's second and fourth largest economies, at a time of rising geopolitical tensions and global economic challenges and highlight the joint commitment to economic openness and rules-based trade. The two leaders further welcomed the simultaneous signing of the Security and Defence partnership that will strengthen EU and India’s dialogue and cooperation on security and defence, and deliver concrete results in areas such as maritime security, cyber, counterterrorism and defence industrial collaboration.

The leaders agreed on the importance of a free, open, secure and peaceful lndo-Pacific, based on respect for international law, sovereignty and territorial integrity, freedom of navigation, and absence of coercion and conflicts. Recalling the EU Strategy on the Indo-Pacific, Prime Minister Jetten announced the decision of the Netherlands to join the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI) and co-lead the Capacity Building & Resource Sharing pillar along with Germany and the European Union.

On Ukraine, the two sides expressed concern over the ongoing war, which continues to cause immense human suffering and carries global consequences. Both leaders agreed to continue to support efforts towards the achievement of a comprehensive, just, and lasting peace in Ukraine through dialogue and diplomacy, based on the principles of the UN Charter and international law.

Both leaders expressed deep concern over the situation in West Asia / the Middle East, noting its serious implications for the region and the wider world, including immense human suffering and disruptions to global energy supplies and trade networks. The leaders welcomed the ceasefire announced on 08 April 2026. They underscored the importance of de-escalation, dialogue and diplomacy and expressed hope for lasting peace in West Asia / the Middle East. They also called for freedom of navigation and global flow of commerce through the Strait of Hormuz, while opposing any restrictive measures, and reaffirmed their support for ongoing efforts and initiatives in this regard.

Economic Cooperation, Trade & Investment

Both leaders noted that the Netherlands–India economic partnership stands out as a model of cooperation, driven by shared priorities such as sustainability, innovation, and long-term growth, creating mutual prosperity for both nations. They welcomed the growth in bilateral trade between the two countries, supported by efficient supply chains and shared commitment to open markets. The Netherlands, with its world class logistics network also serves as a strategic gateway to Europe for Indian exporters, including via its Port of Rotterdam whilst India offers a vast and dynamic market for Dutch companies who will also benefit significantly from upscaling opportunities, its business friendly environment, and the availability of a vast and skilled talent pool in India. At the same time, Indian businesses can leverage advanced Dutch expertise, particularly in water management, sustainable agriculture, and smart cities.

Expressing satisfaction with the existing economic collaboration between the two countries, the leaders emphasized the immense potential for further growth particularly in light of opportunities arising from the India-EU Free Trade Agreement. The Netherlands continues to remain one of India’s major trade and investment partners, reflecting the depth and resilience of the bilateral economic ties.

In order to further facilitate trade and investment, the Prime Ministers welcomed the signing of the Agreement on Mutual Administrative Assistance in Customs Matters, enabling the exchange of information between the customs authorities of the countries and thus contributing to enhanced customs enforcement and the facilitation of legitimate trade between India and the Netherlands.

The leaders reaffirmed their commitment to further advancing bilateral trade and investment through, amongst others, the India–Netherlands Joint Trade and Investment Committee and the Fast Track Mechanism. They agreed to focus on enhancing investment facilitation and strengthening innovation ecosystems to support sustainable growth, job creation and resilient value chains.

Both Prime Ministers underscored the strong potential for cooperation in startups and innovation, noting that solutions developed in India and the Netherlands can scale globally, including across Indian and EU markets. They agreed to further connect both countries’ startup ecosystems, facilitate exchanges, and explore digital soft-landing programmes, as well as increased participation in trade missions, innovation missions and technology summits.

Defence & Security Cooperation

Both leaders welcomed the signing of the Letter of Intent on Defence Cooperation and emphasized the importance of deepening of the defence cooperation between the two countries including through regular interaction between respective Ministries of Defence and staff level talks, to coordinate exchanges of information, visits, research, innovation and training activities. They also concurred to move towards further expanding the scope of Defence Industrial Cooperation between the two countries.

Both leaders also agreed to enhance cooperation in the defence sector, under EU mechanisms and with other partners, and will explore possibilities of establishing a Defense Industrial Roadmap in which defence industrial collaboration for manufacturing of defence equipment, systems, components and other key capabilities through co-development, transfer of technology and setting up of joint ventures for co-production towards meeting the needs of the Armed Forces of both countries are laid down.

The leaders agreed to further enhance the security co-operation, including through regular exchanges between the National Security Apparatus of both countries on traditional and non-traditional security issues, including defence, maritime security, economic security, critical and emerging technologies, cyber security, counter terrorism and other mutually agreed matters of international security.

Both leaders expressed satisfaction with the annual bilateral cyber consultations as well as noted the holding of 8th session of the online cyber school, as means to further strengthen cooperation between the two countries to ensure an open, free and secure cyberspace. In this context, the leaders welcomed the signing of the Letter of Intent on enhanced collaboration in cyberspace, including closer coordination in multilateral fora and joint efforts on countering cyber threats and cybercrime through capacity building and the exchange of knowledge.

Both leaders underlined the importance of an open, free, secure, stable, accessible and peaceful ICT environment, which is seen as an enabler for innovation and economic growth and innovation. In this regard Prime Minister Modi thanked the Netherlands for its constructive participation in the AI Impact Summit that took place on 19 February 2026 in New Delhi.

Prime Minister Jetten strongly condemned the heinous and abhorrent terrorist attack on civilians in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir, India in April 2025 and expressed Netherlands’ solidarity and unwavering support to India in its fight against terrorism, including cross-border terrorism and the two leaders called for holding the perpetrators accountable. The two Prime Ministers unequivocally condemned terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. They called for zero tolerance approach to terrorism and rejected double standards in countering terrorism.

The two leaders reaffirmed the need to combat terrorism in a comprehensive and sustained manner through both bilateral and multilateral mechanisms, including in the UN and the FATF. They further called for concerted action against all terrorists and terrorist groups, including groups proscribed by the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) 1267 Sanctions Committee and their proxies, affiliates, sponsors, backers and financiers. Both sides also called upon all countries to continue to work towards eliminating terrorist safe havens and infrastructure as well as to disrupt terrorist networks and their financing and bring perpetrators of terrorism to justice swiftly, in accordance with international law. Prime Minister Jetten expressed support for India’s endeavors to establish a UN Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism (CCIT).

Both leaders noted with concern the growing threats from the use of new and emerging technologies for terrorist purposes such as unmanned aircraft systems, use of virtual assets by terrorists, and terrorist entities and the misuse of information and communication technologies for radicalization.

Recognizing a shared commitment to combat terrorism and strengthen the framework for global cooperation in this regard, both leaders emphasized the importance of upholding international standards on anti-money laundering and combating the financing of terrorism by all countries.

Emerging technologies, Innovation, Science, and Education

Both leaders welcomed the signing of the MoU on a Partnership on Semiconductors and Related Emerging Technology, which provides the framework for intensified cooperation in semiconductors, including in the areas of investment, research and talent exchange.

Both leaders welcomed the ongoing cooperation in the field of science, technology and innovation, focusing on launching public-private partnerships and connecting the expertise of governments, businesses, and knowledge institutions, through the already active Joint Working Group on Science, Technology and Innovation, which facilitates joint R&D projects, talent mobility, and technology transfer, through regular bilateral dialogues. Both leaders reflected on the almost fifty large research and innovation programs which were jointly launched in the past years and underlined the growing importance of continued collaboration in the domain of key enabling technologies, aimed at addressing common societal challenges with shared solutions.

Both leaders also welcomed the initiative to connect the Dutch Semicon Competence Centre to the Indian Semiconductor Mission (ISM), which aims to support and strengthen the semiconductor sector, specifically industries, startups, scale-ups, SMEs, and their suppliers, through collaboration, technology and talent development. Further both Prime Ministers expressed their appreciation for the Indo-Dutch Semicon Online School and its continuation for next phase.

The two leaders welcomed the adoption of a Memorandum of Cooperation between Eindhoven University of Technology and University of Twente and six Indian leading Technical Institutes (IISc Bangalore, IIT Bombay, IIT Delhi, IIT Gandhinagar, IIT Guwahati and IIT Madras) for a brain bridge in semiconductors and related technologies, with industry partnership from NXP, ASML, TATA and CG Semi. This would catalyse the R&D and talent development with academia and industry participation from both sides.

Recognizing the strategic importance of critical minerals for continued innovation, and the need for global cooperation to build resilient and sustainable supply chains, the two leaders expressed their mutual interest in strengthening cooperation across the critical minerals value chain, including exploration, research and innovation, integration of value chains, supply chain resilience, circularity and ESG standards and related assessments. In this context, the leaders welcomed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding on Critical Minerals.

The two leaders also welcomed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding on Higher Education between the Ministry of Education of India and the Ministry of Education, Culture and Science of the Netherlands to promote cooperation between the higher education institutions of the two countries, in accordance with their respective academic and educational priorities and needs.

Both leaders also expressed satisfaction at the on-going institutional cooperation between Dutch and Indian universities including recent collaborations for example between: University of Groningen and Nalanda University; Delft University of Technology and Mumbai Metropolitan Regional Development Authority; Survey of India and ITC, University of Twente; Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam and Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee; and many more. Both leaders acknowledged that platforms like Indo-Dutch Education & Academic Network can play a significant part to further strengthen the educational and scientific collaboration.

Both leaders acknowledged the ongoing space partnership between India and the Netherlands and the possibility for intensifying the same, specifically on using space-based applications in addressing societal challenges including climate change, water issues, food security as well as air quality.

Energy Security and Transition / Circular Economy

Noting the active bilateral cooperation in biofuels and bio-chemicals, Prime Minister Modi welcomed the Netherlands joining the Global Biofuel Alliance that was launched during India’s Presidency of the G20. The two Prime Ministers also reaffirmed their commitment to work on bio-economy and reflected on the success of Mission Innovation Program on Biorefineries, co-chaired by India and the Netherlands.

Acknowledging the ongoing cooperation on ‘waste to value’, the leaders noted that the 2025 update of the Dutch National Circular Economy Programme 2023-2030 and the Indian presidency of the World Circular Economy Forum (WCEF) 2026 will provide the opportunity for expansion of the partnership in new areas. This includes industrial circularity, solid and liquid waste management for sustainable and climate resilient urban systems, by technology deployment in pilot and scalable projects, introduction of innovation, and opportunities for trade and investment promotion, such as through B2B partnerships for which Dutch companies were invited to join the Resource Efficiency and Circular Economy Industry Coalition (RECEIC). In the field of sustainable mobility, cooperation may be deepened in areas such as smart and inter operable charging infrastructure, battery technology and system integration, standardization and open protocols, heavy and medium-heavy zero-emission vehicles, smart urban mobility systems and multimodal integration, and, alternative fuels and active mobility.

With a view to further strengthening the partnership between India and the Netherlands in the field of Renewable Energy, the two leaders welcomed the establishment of a Joint Working Group under the Memorandum of Understanding on Renewable Energy which provides ample scope for a diversified agenda for cooperation in renewable energy, including innovative solar energy, green hydrogen, storage and investments in the renewable energy sector to facilitate energy transition.

To further strengthen the cooperation and two-way investments on renewable energy, the leaders launched the ambitious India-Netherlands Roadmap on the Development of Green Hydrogen. The leaders agreed that the roadmap will help support India’s ambition, vast potential and competitive advantages for production, usage and export of Green Hydrogen while also contributing to a swifter adoption of Green Hydrogen as a sustainable source of energy in both countries.

In addition to this, the renewal of the Joint Statement of Intent on Capacity Building for Energy Transition between NITI Aayog and the Netherlands will ensure continued collaboration in Energy Security and Transition areas.

The two leaders furthermore welcomed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the University of Groningen (RUG) and 19 Indian Institutes for Technology (IITs) to strengthen academic cooperation. They also welcomed the establishment of a PhD Fellowship Programme on Hydrogen between the Department of Science and Technology of India and RUG.

Water Management

The two leaders noted the progress made under the Strategic Partnership on Water in building upon the synergies between the water related requirements of India and the expertise and experience of the Netherlands. Both Prime Ministers appreciated the joint efforts being undertaken in the field of water and river management, including partnership in the Namami Gange Mission, urban water management for climate resilience through Urban River Management Plans in combination with ‘Water as Leverage’, delta management, water quality management, waste water re-use and introduction of new water technologies. Both leaders emphasized the importance of safely managed sanitation and inclusive access to clean water and acknowledged the contribution of the Netherlands in sustainable finance for WASH related developmental projects internationally, aligned with India’s Swachh Bharat Mission goals.

Both leaders welcomed the establishment of a Centre of Excellence on Water under the aegis of Ministry of Jal Shakti, Government of India in collaboration with the Ministry of Infrastructure & Water Management, Government of the Netherlands at the Indian Institute for Technology (IIT) Delhi. The leaders also noted the progress under various ongoing joint programs in the states of Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu and Keralam.

Both leaders agreed to further enhance cooperation on the Kalpasar Project in Gujarat, where Dutch expertise and technical assistance in the Project can lead to the further strengthening of Strategic Partnership on Water.

The leaders noted the progress made so far on the Urban Water Infrastructure Resilience program of the India-led global Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI), through which the Netherlands shares its expertise as part of its membership. Both leaders look forward to the roll-out of the developed training program both in Indian cities with the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and globally in others of the 50+ CDRI member countries.

Maritime development

The two Prime Ministers noted the recently renewed Memorandum of Understanding on Maritime Cooperation and underscored the importance of continued collaboration towards a safe, secure and sustainable maritime sector, supporting the development of a strategic ‘Green and Digital Sea Corridor’ between India and the Netherlands, as outlined in the Letter of Intent signed in October 2025. In this context, they agreed to further deepen and broaden their partnership in the areas of smart and sustainable development of ports and inland waterways, supply chain optimization and green ports and shipping. As a next step, both Prime Ministers agreed to explore developing a comprehensive 'Strategic Roadmap on a Green and Digital Sea Corridor' which aims at working towards an environmentally sustainable, digitally integrated and economically efficient future-ready maritime corridor between India and the Netherlands.

Given the shared interest in global and regional maritime security, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region, both Prime Ministers agreed to exchange best practices – between relevant government entities, businesses and knowledge institutes – in the field of protecting critical infrastructure including cyber resilience in ports and inland waterways and promoting diversified and resilient supply chains (including critical raw materials, medicine and food).

Health Sector

Both leaders emphasized the importance of scaling up bilateral cooperation on health, particularly in addressing global public health risks such as infectious diseases and anti-microbial resistance, as well as the growing impact of non-communicable diseases. Both leaders agreed to encourage further cooperation in digital health (including AI and cybersecurity) and capacity building. They welcomed the renewal of the Memorandum of Understanding on Healthcare and Public Health and consideration of new co-operation initiatives in areas such as women’s health, capacity development for climate and health preparedness, and knowledge exchange on sustainable healthcare systems in both countries. In the light of this renewed Memorandum of Understanding. The two leaders also welcomed the recently signed Letter of Intent between the Dutch National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM) and the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), focusing on areas such as infectious diseases, vector-borne diseases, One Health and disease surveillance.

Both leaders further underscored that, within the framework of the India-Netherlands strategic partnership, enhanced focus will be given to collaboration in pharmaceuticals and medical devices, to ensure high-quality, accessible, safe, and sustainable healthcare. In 2026, the first Joint Working Group meeting will be convened under the newly signed Memorandum of Understanding to discuss the implementation and further development of the Memorandum of Understanding and its WorkPlan, and to identify key opportunities for collaboration, including through academic cooperation, regulatory cooperation, business engagement, and knowledge exchange on market access.

Agriculture & food systems

Both leaders noted with satisfaction the on-going India-Netherlands collaboration in the field of agriculture, food systems and responsible value chains, including the exchange of knowledge and experience sharing through the Joint Working Group on Agriculture. The leaders welcomed the growing presence of Dutch companies in India in the field of protected cultivation, food processing, dairy and poultry. The leaders underscored the importance of leveraging the opportunities for co-operation between Indian and Dutch companies related to the agricultural sector including agri-tech.

The leaders reviewed the progress in setting up of Centers of Excellence in agri-related sectors in India, with Dutch expertise. These Centres are promoting technology in high-tech greenhouse agricultural productions as well as improved agricultural inputs and capacity building for smallholder farmers, leading to more sustainable and higher quality/productivity and reduced water and agro-chemical use.

The leaders underscored their commitment to further enhancing the impact and effectiveness of the Centers through continued collaboration and knowledge exchange. They also agreed to explore expanded collaboration in vocational education across various aspects of the food systems.

The leaders further welcomed the signing of a Joint Declaration between the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying and the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Security and Nature of the Netherlands as well as the establishment of an Indo-Dutch Center of Excellence on Training in Dairy at the Center of Excellence for Animal Husbandry (CEAH), Bengaluru. Both sides agreed to continue to explore cooperation in Dairy and other allied agricultural sectors including food processing.

The leaders noted the work being undertaken, to boost Indian-Dutch cooperation in horticulture for establishment of Clean Plant Centres (CPCs) under India’s ongoing Clean Plant Programme in order to promote the availability of disease free, quality planting material of high value horticultural and fruit crops for global competitiveness of Indian Horticulture Sector. In this regard, the leaders welcomed the conclusion of the Memorandum of Understanding on capacity building and support between Naktuinbouw and National Horticulture Board, Department of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare, Government of India

Underscoring the importance of food safety and security, both leaders welcomed the Memorandum of Understanding between Netherlands Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority (NVWA) and Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI).

People-to-People Exchanges & Culture

The two Prime Ministers acknowledged the strong people-to-people ties which represent an important pillar of the India-Netherlands relationship. Prime Minister Jetten showed gratitude for the contribution made by the Indian community in the Netherlands to Dutch society. Both leaders reaffirmed their resolve to further facilitate people-to-people contacts between the two countries, particularly through youth, academia, professional workforce, sports, and cultural exchanges.

Noting the importance of facilitating fair migration and mobility between the two countries, both leaders welcomed the signing the Memorandum of Understanding on Migration and Mobility.

The two countries also agreed to further strengthen cooperation with a view to prevent and combat irregular migration and trafficking of human beings, and encourage the fair mobility of highly skilled professionals. This approach is guided by international standards that ensure migrant workers are treated with dignity and respect, including fair mobility, transparent visa processes, and the protection of workers' rights.

The two Prime Ministers agreed to deepen cultural ties between the two countries through enhanced cultural cooperation including by promoting exhibitions and cultural initiatives to deepen mutual knowledge, in fields such as, design, performing arts, visual arts, museum and heritage cooperation and exchanged views on the possible establishment of a Joint Working Group on Cultural Cooperation.

Highlighting the importance of mutual cultural appreciation, the leaders appreciated the efforts to showcase the artworks of Amrita Sher-Gil exhibition at the Drents Museum, as part of the Memorandum of Understanding between the Drents Museum and the National Gallery of Modern Art. They also looked forward to the return exhibition showcasing an artwork by Van Gogh and other Dutch artworks at the National Gallery of Modern Art.

Both Prime Ministers underscored the importance of cooperating in the return and restitution of cultural artifacts and in that regard welcomed the return of the Chola Era Copper Plates from the University of Leiden to the Indian authorities.

Recalling the centuries-old bilateral maritime history between India and the Netherlands, both leaders welcomed the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding for cooperation in development of the National Maritime Heritage Complex (NMHC) in Lothal (Gujarat), between National Maritime Museum of Amsterdam and the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways of India.

The talks were held in a friendly and cordial atmosphere, and both leaders expressed their confidence in the ample scope for further development of bilateral relations and of the multifaceted cooperation across sectors of India-Netherlands Strategic Partnership Roadmap. Prime Minister Modi thanked Prime Minister Jetten for the warm hospitality and extended an invitation to Prime Minister Jetten to visit India at his earliest convenience.