Indian scientists are about to join one of the world’s biggest research collaborations. India and the European Union have concluded talks on India’s association with Horizon Europe, the €93.5 billion European Union research and innovation programme.
The Indian universities, research institutions, companies and scientists can now use the funding of the programme and work on projects with European partners. Once the deal is signed by both sides and the formalities are completed, it should take effect in January 2027. It is the EU’s flagship research and innovation programme for 2021-2027. Its €93.5 billion budget funds scientific research, technology development and innovation across a wide range of sectors.
For India, it is about moving beyond one-off partnerships and bilateral projects. The association offers a formal and durable route for the country to join Europe’s research system. That timing is fine. India is looking to build up its research base and play a bigger role in emerging technologies. “Cooperation will likely be big in artificial intelligence, semiconductors, advanced computing, clean energy and space. The two sides are building on existing cooperation.
They renewed their Agreement on Scientific and Technological Cooperation, which was signed in 2001, until 2030. Research and innovation also play a significant role in the Joint EU-India Comprehensive Strategic Agenda toward 2030, adopted at the India-EU Summit on January 27, 2026.
