India-EU Conclude Negotiations to Join Horizon Europe Programme

India and the European Union (EU) have successfully concluded negotiations for India’s formal association with Horizon Europe, the EU’s flagship research and innovation mechanism. Initiated in early 2026, both sides are slated to formally sign the association agreement in January.

About Horizon Europe

Massive Funding Pool: Operating with a total budget of €93.5 billion (2021–2027), it is the EU’s premier initiative addressing climate change, UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and industrial competitiveness.
Equal Partnership: "Association" represents the highest cooperation tier for non-EU nations (joining 23 associated countries), granting Indian entities participation and bidding rights on equal terms with European counterparts.

Key Benefits for India

Access to Direct EU Funding: Indian scientists, universities, and enterprises will be eligible to secure direct grants and spearhead multinational consortia.
Focus on Pillar II: India will actively participate in ‘Global Challenges and European Industrial Competitiveness’, driving research in high-priority sectors like digital technologies, space, healthcare, green energy, climate, and the bioeconomy.
Reinforcing Bilateral Ties: Aligns with the EU-India Scientific Cooperation Agreement (extended to 2030) and the Joint Comprehensive Strategic Agenda towards 2030.