India-EU conclude negotiations to join Horizon Europe programme

Key Highlights:

• India and the European Union (EU) have concluded negotiations for India’s association with Horizon Europe.
• Horizon Europe is the EU’s flagship research and innovation programme.
• This association establishes a long-term institutional framework for research cooperation between India and the EU.
• It will facilitate Indian researchers, institutions, and industry to participate in funding calls and access European research infrastructure.
• The collaboration aims to deepen talent mobility and co-develop critical technologies, aligning with India's research priorities and contributing to Viksit Bharat 2047.

Detailed Insights:

• The association builds upon existing R&D projects and cooperation under the India–EU Agreement on Science and Technology Cooperation and the India-EU Trade and Technology Council.
• Indian participants will gain access to European consortia and cutting-edge research infrastructure through this program.
• Thematic clusters of Pillar II of Horizon Europe include health, digital technologies, industry, space, climate, energy, mobility, food, and the bioeconomy.
• The exploration for this association was launched after the India-EU Summit on January 27, 2026, with formal negotiations starting after the Trade and Technology Council meeting on July 15, 2026.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Horizon Europe: The European Union's key funding programme for research and innovation, running from 2021 to 2027.
• India-EU Trade and Technology Council: A high-level forum established to address challenges at the intersection of trade, trusted technology, and security.
• Viksit Bharat 2047: India's vision to become a developed nation by 2047, marking the centenary of its independence.