The Negev covers 60% of Israel's land but only 9% of its population. Yet it produces 60% of the country\'s vegetables and is a global R&D hub for desert agriculture. Ramat HaNegev R&D station, Yair Station, and dozens of kibbutzim make crops grow in 200mm/year rainfall.
Cultural note, The Negev was Ben-Gurion's obsession ("the Negev is where the Jewish people will be tested") and remains the strategic land of Israeli development. Solar farms, dairy, vineyards, exotic crops (mango, dragon fruit, pomegranate), all are grown there. Ramat HaNegev R&D and the Arava International Center for Agricultural Training are recognized worldwide.