Rise of a new generation: Why many young Indians looking at Israel differently
For decades, India’s approach to the Middle East was deeply influenced by anti-colonial sentiments, the Non-Aligned Movement, and close ties with Arab countries. Backing the Palestinian cause wasn’t just policy—it was a core part of how we saw ourselves on the global stage during the Cold War. India voted against the 1947 UN Partition Plan, formally recognized Israel in 1950 but waited until 1992 to establish full diplomatic relations. We were also the first non-Arab nation to recognize the PLO as the legitimate voice of the Palestinians.
Even today, India’s official stance firmly supports a two-state solution: a sovereign Palestine living peacefully alongside Israel, achieved through negotiation. Prime Minister Modi and others have reiterated this position time and again.
But something has been shifting, especially among people my age. While the older ideological lens hasn’t disappeared entirely, many young Indians today see Israel differently—not just through politics, but as a strategic partner, a hub of innovation, and a tough, resilient democracy navigating incredibly complex threats. This change didn’t happen in a vacuum. It’s the result of three decades of evolving ties, economic openings, and a generation raised on smartphones and global platforms rather than state-controlled narratives alone.
From Caution to Cooperation
After the Cold War ended and India liberalized its economy in the early 1990s, the ground was ready for real engagement. Full diplomatic relations in 1992 unlocked doors in defence, agriculture, water tech, cybersecurity, and research. Trade, which was barely $200 million back then, ballooned to over $10 billion in some recent years (excluding defence). India has become one of Israel’s important Asian trading partners, exchanging everything from gems and chemicals to cutting-edge machinery.
Defence cooperation stands out. India has been one of the largest buyers of Israeli systems—drones, missile defence, radars—and the relationship has moved toward joint production with Indian companies like Adani and Tata teaming up with Israeli firms. Water management, agritech centres of excellence, and innovation funds like I4F show the breadth of what’s working on the ground.
What the Data Shows About Young Indians?
A 2026 survey by the India Israel Centre asked 500 urban Gen Z Indians (18-29) across different regions what comes to mind when they think of Israel. The results were striking: nearly half (48%) associated it first with defence and military strength, while 35% pointed to innovation and technology. Over half saw it as highly technologically advanced. Importantly, 41% wanted stronger ties with Israel, compared to fewer who preferred keeping things as they are or pulling back.
Other polls reflect a pragmatic streak among young Indians on foreign policy—focusing on security, technology, trade, and energy rather than old ideological boxes.
Social media has played a huge role. My generation sees Israeli startups, water-saving tech, cybersecurity breakthroughs, and the famous “Startup Nation” spirit. Israel’s heavy investment in R&D and its ability to turn challenges into innovations resonates with India’s own ambitions. Indian engineers and startups are increasingly collaborating with Israeli counterparts through accelerators and exchange programs.
Building Bridges Through Education and People
Universities can make this real and lasting. Right now, hundreds of Indian students are pursuing advanced studies in Israel, especially PhDs and post-docs. New initiatives like the India Chair at Tel Aviv University, MoUs between Hebrew University and Nalanda, and government schemes for joint research are helping. These aren’t just checkboxes—they create personal connections that go beyond governments and headlines.
As someone studying political science and international relations, I’ve come to believe these academic and entrepreneurial exchanges are where the deepest impact happens. They humanize the relationship.
No Need for Zero-Sum Thinking
Strengthening ties with Israel doesn’t mean India has to abandon its support for Palestinian rights or the two-state vision. A confident foreign policy can walk both paths: practical partnerships where they make sense, while consistently calling for dialogue and peace. Many young Indians seem to get this nuance—they admire Israel’s strengths in innovation and security without ignoring the broader complexities.
In the end, the future of India-Israel relations won’t be written only in diplomatic cables. It will be shaped by students swapping ideas on campus, researchers tackling common problems, entrepreneurs building joint ventures, and young people choosing curiosity over inherited divisions. That feels like the real shift—and maybe the most hopeful one.
