India and the European Union (EU) have successfully concluded negotiations for India’s association with Horizon Europe, the EU’s flagship research and innovation funding programme. The development is expected to create new opportunities for Indian universities, researchers, research institutions and businesses to participate in international research projects and collaborate with European partners.
The Ministry of Science and Technology announced the development through a Press Information Bureau (PIB) release on November 7, 2026.
What is Horizon Europe?
- Horizon Europe is the European Union’s major research and innovation funding programme for 2021-2027, with a total budget of approximately €93.5 billion.
- The programme supports scientific research, technological development and international cooperation to address global challenges. It brings together universities, research organisations, industries and scientists from different countries to work on collaborative projects.
New Opportunities for Indian Researchers
India’s association with the programme is expected to provide Indian researchers and institutions with opportunities to participate in funding calls and collaborative research projects.
The proposed association will help Indian organisations:
- Participate in international research and innovation projects.
- Access European research networks and advanced research infrastructure.
- Collaborate with universities, research institutions and industries across Europe.
- Develop critical technologies, scientific standards and innovative solutions.
- Strengthen research partnerships and talent mobility between India and Europe.
Key Areas of Cooperation
The cooperation will focus on several important research areas under Pillar II of Horizon Europe, including:
- Health: Medical research and healthcare innovation.
- Digital Technologies: Advanced digital solutions and emerging technologies.
- Industry and Space: Industrial innovation and space related research.
- Climate and Energy: Clean energy, climate solutions and sustainability.
- Mobility: Research into future transport and mobility systems.
- Food and Bioeconomy: Agricultural research, food systems and bio-based technologies.
- These areas align with several of India’s research and development priorities.
Background of the Agreement
- The process began following the India-EU Summit held in New Delhi on January 27, 2026, when both sides explored the possibility of India’s association with Horizon Europe.
- Formal negotiations were initiated following the ministerial meeting of the India-EU Trade and Technology Council in Brussels on July 15, 2026.
- The latest development builds on the existing India-EU Agreement on Scientific and Technological Cooperation and ongoing research partnerships between the two sides.
Formal Signing and Implementation
- The conclusion of negotiations is an important step, but it does not mean that the association is already operational.
- The formal association agreement must be signed and the necessary procedures completed by both sides before the new participation and funding arrangements take effect. India’s association is envisaged from January 2027.
- Once implemented, the arrangement is expected to strengthen scientific collaboration and create wider opportunities for Indian researchers, institutions and businesses to work with European partners.
Strengthening India-EU Relations
- The development adds another dimension to the growing India-EU partnership in science, technology and innovation. Cooperation in research is also linked to wider discussions on artificial intelligence, semiconductors, high performance computing, digital technologies and clean energy.
- The association with Horizon Europe is expected to support joint research, encourage innovation and help both sides address shared scientific and technological challenges.
