Indian researchers and institutions could gain direct access to the European Union’s €93.5-billion research programme from January 2027, subject to the signing of an agreement and completion of formal procedures
India and the European Union (EU) have concluded negotiations on India’s association with Horizon Europe, the bloc’s flagship research and innovation programme, paving the way for greater scientific cooperation and funding opportunities for Indian researchers and institutions.
The European Commission announced the development on November 6, describing it as an important step towards strengthening scientific collaboration and deepening the India-EU strategic partnership.
The association is expected to take effect from January 2027, subject to the signing of the agreement and completion of the necessary procedures by both sides.
Under the proposed arrangement, Indian researchers, research organisations and businesses will be able to receive funding directly from Horizon Europe and lead collaborative projects under its Pillar II, titled ‘Global Challenges and European Industrial Competitiveness’.
Pillar II is the programme’s largest component and supports multinational research initiatives addressing major societal and technological challenges. Its focus areas include healthcare, digital technologies, industry, space, climate, energy and the bioeconomy.
The arrangement would allow Indian organisations to participate on equal terms with their European counterparts in the areas covered by the agreement. India will also make a financial contribution to the programme.
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EU Commissioner for Startups, Research and Innovation Ekaterina Zaharieva said the association would create opportunities for researchers and businesses on both sides to develop technologies and address shared challenges
India and the EU began exploratory discussions on the proposed association in February 2026, with formal negotiations commencing in July.
The development builds on the bilateral Agreement for Scientific and Technological Cooperation, signed in 2001 and renewed until 2030.
Research and innovation have also been identified as key areas under the Joint India-EU Comprehensive Strategic Agenda towards 2030, adopted at the India-EU summit in January.
Horizon Europe operates with a budget of €93.5 billion for 2021-2027. Several non-EU countries, including Canada, Japan, South Korea, Norway, Switzerland and the United Kingdom, are already associated with the programme.
The proposed association is expected to strengthen research partnerships, facilitate technology development and expand opportunities for Indian institutions to participate in international scientific projects.
