Indian PM on State Visit to Israel, Degel's Executive Director in a Delegation meet with him

Prime Minister Modi with the Indian Jewish community in Israel.

(March 2, 2026) The Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in India on a highly anticipated two-day state visit to Israel, commencing on the 25th of February 2026. This visit was marked by significant diplomatic importance and was accompanied by a robust delegation comprising 200 members, all traveling aboard a specially designated aircraft that underscored the seriousness and prestige of the occasion. Upon his arrival at Ben Gurion Airport, he was warmly welcomed by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his wife, Sara Netanyahu. This reception was not merely a formality; it highlighted the personal bond between the two leaders, which is a reflection of the deep and warm ties that have developed between India and Israel over the years. The primary objective of this visit was to further strengthen bilateral relations across various domains,

including defense, trade, and other peripheral areas, all of which are crucial to both nations. The relationship

Prime Minister listens attentively to a presentation by Dina Samte.

has been on a steady upward trajectory since the establishment of diplomatic ties in 1992, evolving significantly in scope and depth. Notably, a major component of the discussions was a substantial defense deal valued at $8.6 billion with Israeli arms industries, which positions Israel as India's second-largest defense supplier, just behind France.

The first day of Prime Minister Modi’s visit was particularly memorable, as it featured a vibrant reception hosted by the Indian Jewish community at the prestigious King David Hotel in Jerusalem. The turnout was overwhelming, exceeding expectations and placing considerable demands on security personnel tasked with managing the event. Among the highlights of the evening was a performance by Dina Samte, a talented B'nei Menashe singer, who welcomed the delegates with a song "I Love my India", a popular contemporary Hindi song that resonated deeply with the attendees. This performance was not only well-received but also left a lasting impression, as Prime Minister Modi later remarked on the significance of her contributions during his subsequent meeting with Isaac Thangjom, the executive director of Degel Menashe. Dina is a member of the renowned Israeli band "Shalva," which has enjoyed considerable success both in Israel and internationally, showcasing the cultural ties that bind the two nations. Following this warm reception, Prime Minister Modi addressed the Knesset where he mentioned the the four Indian Jewish communities, including the B'nei Menashe. He acknowledged their invaluable contributions to both India and

PM Modi with Jessica Thangjom during his earlier visit in 2017.

Israel, emphasizing that these communities serve as 'the living bridge' between the two countries. It is noteworthy that this visit marks Modi's second trip to Israel, the first being in July 2017, thereby completing a significant circle in his diplomatic engagements.

The following day, Executive Director Thangjom of Degel Menashe was among the select members of the Indian Jewish community who had the honour of meeting with Prime Minister Modi in a more intimate setting. This meeting took place in a private hall at the historic King David Hotel, following Modi's earlier discussions with Isaac Herzog, the President of Israel, that morning. During this smaller gathering, Thangjom expressed heartfelt gratitude on behalf of the B'nei Menashe community and the broader Indian community for the support and cooperation extended by the Indian government regarding the aliya initiatives being facilitated by the Israeli government. He reassured the Prime Minister of the community's commitment to continue working diligently towards enhancing and strengthening the bilateral ties between India and Israel. This meeting not only reinforced the existing bonds but also set the stage for future collaborations that are expected to benefit both nations.

Thangjom with prominent members of the Indian Jewish community members prepare for a meeting with PM Modi.

Inspiring Evening at Museum of Islamic Art, Jerusalem Celebrates the Bnei Menashe Story

Ronia Lunkhel presents an insightful story of the B'nei Menashe at L.A. Mayer Museum for Islamic Art, Jerusalem.

(February 20, 2026) As part of "India Month" at the Museum of Islamic Art in Jerusalem, Degel Menashe’s Executive Director had the honour of attending a remarkable evening dedicated to the story of the Bnei Menashe community. At the heart of the event was a powerful and captivating lecture delivered by the talented young speaker, Ronia Lunkhel. With grace, clarity, and heartfelt conviction, Ronia shared the journey of the Bnei Menashe -- a story woven with faith, longing, resilience, and an unbreakable connection to the Jewish people. The hall was filled to capacity, drawing participants from diverse Jewish communities, all eager to listen and engage. Throughout the evening, the audience remained deeply attentive, visibly moved by the narrative of a community that held onto its identity across generations and continents, ultimately returning to what was once an unknown land to their forefathers, now their cherished home.

The museum's display on the program.

Ronia’s storytelling did more than simply recount history; it served to vividly bring the journey of the Bnei Menashe to life in a way that engaged the senses and emotions of her audience. Her eloquent narrative was not just a series of events strung together; it was a tapestry woven with rich details, personal anecdotes, and cultural significance that painted a comprehensive picture of their experiences. Each word she spoke resonated deeply, striking a chord within the hearts of her listeners and igniting a flame of curiosity and inspiration that lingered long after the formal lecture had concluded. As she recounted tales of resilience, hope, and the enduring spirit of the Bnei Menashe, her passionate delivery captivated the audience, drawing them into the emotional landscape of her stories. The vivid imagery she conjured allowed attendees to envision the struggles and triumphs of the Bnei Menashe people, making their historical journey feel immediate and relatable. Many attendees, moved by the depth of her storytelling, lingered in the hall long after the event had ended, reluctant to part ways with the profound insights they had gained. They engaged in animated discussions, sharing their reflections and expressing a strong desire to continue learning about the rich heritage and traditions of the Bnei Menashe. This collective eagerness to explore further underscored the impact of Ronia's narrative, as it not only educated but also fostered a community of individuals eager to delve deeper into the stories of those who have navigated complex histories. In this way, Ronia’s storytelling transcended mere historical recounting; it became a catalyst for connection and understanding, inspiring attendees to seek out more knowledge and appreciation for the Bnei Menashe heritage and the broader tapestry of human experience.

Audience listen to a story unfolding.

The evening stood as a testament to the power of authentic storytelling - how one voice, when guided by passion and truth, can bridge cultures and strengthen communal bonds.

Special appreciation was extended to Rafi Bhonker, Tirtza Levi , Jessica Thangjom from IJHC and our heartfelt appreciation as well to Gilad Levian, General Director from the Museum of Islamic Art and to Hadar Fractenberg, in-charge of the event, for organizing an impactful and beautifully executed event that left a lasting impression on all who attended.

With such enthusiasm and heartfelt engagement, there is already anticipation for another gathering to continue this meaningful dialogue.

Organizers and participants of the event pose for a post-event photo.

Operation 'Wings of Dawn' Announced by the Ministry's Deputy Director General

Deputy Director General, Pines, addresses the conference attendees.

(January 30, 2026) A significant and impactful conference was held at the Kinneret Academic College, in Tiberias, on the 27th of January 2026. The event was meticulously organized by the Ministry of Aliya & Klita, with a specific focus on engaging with the B'nei Menashe youths. The primary objective of the conference was to provide these young individuals with crucial and comprehensive information regarding the various educational and job opportunities available within Israel, thereby facilitating their integration into society. The conference took place from 4 PM to 8 PM, and it was structured thoughtfully to address the myriad challenges that new olim, particularly the youth, encounter as they navigate their new lives in Israel. The event was led by Mr. Moshe Pines, the deputy director general of the Ministry of Aliya & Klita. In his speech, Pines shared a personal anecdote that resonated deeply with many attendees. He recounted the heart-wrenching experience of losing his home in Gush Katif to fire, which forced him to relocate to a neighborhood predominantly inhabited by members of the B'nei Menashe community. This experience not only highlighted the resilience and strength of the B'nei Menashe but also forged a lasting bond between Pines and the community that continues to thrive to this day. The event was ably hosted by Eyal Nitzan, the deputy director of the education

Host Nitzan on the podium.

wing of the ministry, who ensured that everything ran smoothly and efficiently. Among the notable speakers was Ms. Miri Cohen, the director of the education wing, who delivered an uplifting address filled with words of encouragement. She urged all attendees to take full advantage of the educational systems and resources available to them, emphasizing the importance of education as a pathway to success and integration in their new homeland. After the formalities were completed, the atmosphere shifted to a more interactive format as teams of experts, including representatives from Degel Menashe, were assigned specific rooms and tables. Here, participants were encouraged to present their queries and concerns regarding the educational and job markets, fostering an environment of open dialogue and support. This setup allowed for personalized interactions, where the youth could seek guidance tailored to their unique situations and aspirations. As the evening progressed, the conference concluded on a high note with a sumptuous dinner, providing an opportunity for networking and further discussions among the participants and speakers. This

Invitation to the event.

gathering not only served its immediate purpose of informing and empowering the B'nei Menashe youth but also reinforced the sense of community and belonging that is essential for successful integration into Israeli society. The event was a testament to the commitment of the Ministry of Aliya & Klita to support new immigrants in their journey towards a brighter and more fulfilling future in Israel.

The director general made an important announcement regarding the commencement of 'Mivtza Kanfei Shachar,' or Operation Wings of Dawn. This operation is a monumental initiative aimed at facilitating the return of the remaining 5,800 B'nei Menashe, who are currently residing in India, back to their ancestral homeland of Israel. The name of the operation, which translates to "Wings of Dawn," beautifully encapsulates the hope and renewal that this project represents for the B'nei Menashe people. It symbolizes not only a physical journey but also a spiritual and emotional homecoming for those who have long awaited the opportunity to reunite with their heritage and families. The ambitious project is meticulously planned to unfold over a span of five years, commencing in the first quarter of 2026 and aimed for completion by the year 2030. This timeline reflects a well-thought-out approach to ensure that the integration process is smooth and supportive for all involved. Each year, it is anticipated that more than 1,000 B'nei Menashe will successfully reunite with their families in Israel. This gradual approach not only allows for careful planning and execution but also ensures that the returning families receive the necessary support during their transition. Director General Pines has taken up this noble and momentous endeavor with a profound sense of responsibility and commitment, embodying the spirit and aspirations of all B'nei Menashe to return home. The ethos behind this initiative is clear: no one should be left behind, emphasizing the importance of community and family bonds.

Participants pack the auditorium.