Maharashtra Signs MoU with Iowa, Opens New Avenues for Global Cooperation
Mumbai, 12th September 2025: Maharashtra has entered into a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the U.S. state of Iowa to expand collaboration across agriculture, biotechnology, infrastructure, renewable energy, financial services, education, and technology.
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis described the agreement as a “historic step” that will generate opportunities for innovation, knowledge-sharing, and investment between the two states.
Focus Areas of the Agreement
Investment promotion and economic exchanges
Joint projects in agriculture, food processing, tourism, healthcare, sports, and clean energy
Academic collaborations and research partnerships
The MoU was formalized in Mumbai in the presence of CM Fadnavis and Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds. Senior officials from both governments, including Maharashtra Chief Secretary Rajesh Kumar, Additional Chief Secretary (Higher & Technical Education) Venugopal Reddy, Principal Secretary to the CM Ashwini Bhide, and Iowa Agriculture Secretary Mike Naig, attended the event.
Highlighting Iowa’s expertise, Fadnavis noted, “Iowa is among the leading U.S. states in agriculture and agri-technology. This partnership offers Maharashtra the chance to benefit from advancements in AI-driven farming, digital governance, biotechnology, healthcare, renewable energy, and infrastructure through close cooperation with Iowa’s universities and institutions.”
He further added that India’s growing renewable energy sector would gain additional momentum under this collaboration. “After sister-state agreements with Japan and Germany that enhanced trade and cultural ties, this first-of-its-kind agreement with a U.S. state will also deepen India–U.S. relations,” the Chief Minister said.
Governor Kim Reynolds welcomed the partnership, stating, “It is a privilege to work with a progressive and industrially strong state like Maharashtra. This MoU is a step toward driving innovation, economic growth, and mutual development. Both states will pursue projects in agriculture, education, and industry, supported by regular exchange of delegations.”
Potential Gains for Maharashtra
Access to Iowa’s cutting-edge agri-technology to increase farm productivity
Growth of food processing industries with greater export opportunities
Expansion of renewable energy initiatives for sustainable development
Digital governance and smart farming models
Improved healthcare through research and professional training
Vocational training leading to skill development and job creation
Tourism promotion, sports exchanges, and cultural cooperation
Strengthening of U.S.–India business partnerships
Academic and research exposure for students and scholars
Enhanced global profile of Maharashtra as a hub for technology and industry
The collaboration is expected to lay the foundation for long-term growth, sustainable development, and stronger global partnerships for Maharashtra.
