The global boycott of major companies over ties to Israel has raised urgent questions about Indian companies. Activists are scrutinizing whether Indian corporations are indirectly supporting Israel’s military operations in Gaza. This includes their investments and partnerships. Technology, finance, and trade play an increasing role in modern warfare.
Indian Companies and Their Links to Israel’s Defence Network
India and Israel have developed strong ties in defence, technology, and trade. Several Indian companies are now involved in projects connected to Israel’s military. For example, the Adani Group, through its defence arm, works with Elbit Systems to produce Hermes-900 drones, which are used for surveillance and targeting in Gaza. Adani’s acquisition of Haifa Port also links it to Israel’s naval infrastructure, raising concerns about commercial investments supporting military use.
Reliance Industries collaborates with Rafael Advanced Defense Systems to produce Spike anti-tank missiles, used in urban combat. Public sector firms like Bharat Electronics Limited supply missile components, while Hindustan Aeronautics Limited works on aircraft systems connected to defence operations. These contributions show how Indian companies play a role in Israel’s military-industrial network.
Technology and digital services are another key area. Tata Consultancy Services participates in projects like “Project Nimbus,” which provide cloud and AI infrastructure. Critics argue these systems can enable surveillance and monitoring, particularly in conflict zones, highlighting the ethical concerns of such partnerships.
Financial, Education, and Business Ties Under Scrutiny
Financial systems play a crucial role in supporting trade and defence projects, even in conflict zones. Banks and insurance companies help businesses operate smoothly by providing trade finance, credit, and risk coverage. The State Bank of India, for example, has a branch in Tel Aviv that supports Indian companies in Israel and has been involved in financing major infrastructure projects. Insurance and investment services further reduce operational risks, enabling companies to continue working during conflicts.
In the technology and finance sector, Tech Mahindra has partnered with Israeli firms in artificial intelligence and data analytics. These technologies can serve both civilian and security purposes, raising ethical questions about their use in conflict areas.
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Education partnerships between India and Israel have also come under scrutiny. Institutions like IIT Delhi, IIT Bombay, and IIM Bangalore have collaborated with universities such as Tel Aviv University and Technion. While often framed as academic exchanges, some critics point out that these collaborations are linked to military research and defence projects, making them more than just educational initiatives.
Labour agreements add another layer of concern. India has signed deals to send thousands of workers to Israel. Critics argue that this may replace Palestinian workers, affecting their livelihoods and indirectly supporting Israel’s domestic economy during conflicts.
Pharma, Agriculture, and Infrastructure Connections
Indian companies are increasingly involved in Israel’s healthcare and agriculture sectors. In pharmaceuticals, firms like Sun Pharmaceutical Industries, Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories, Lupin, and Aurobindo Pharma have operations or partnerships in Israel. These investments give Indian companies access to research facilities and global markets. Critics, however, point out that these developments coexist with the destruction of healthcare infrastructure in Gaza, raising ethical concerns.
Agriculture is another area of Indian involvement. Jain Irrigation Systems acquired an Israeli micro-irrigation company, gaining access to advanced farming technologies. These systems are widely used across Israel, including in disputed territories. Water management is also controversial, with Mekorot providing technical expertise in India while controlling water supply in Palestinian areas. Such activities raise questions about whether economic projects indirectly support occupation and control over land and resources.
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Infrastructure, finance, and agriculture together create a network that sustains Israeli economic activity. Critics argue that this network, while commercial, may also contribute to systemic inequalities and the ongoing conflict. International laws, including the United Nations Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights, emphasize that companies must ensure their work does not contribute to human rights violations.
There is increasing debate over corporate accountability. International law is examining whether economic activity that supports military or political systems can make companies legally responsible. The role of Indian corporations in Israel continues to attract scrutiny, with questions about ethics, responsibility, and the impact of global trade.