Overview
- Officials have launched technical discussions to evaluate the scope, principles and financial arrangements of a possible association, with no binding agreement yet.
- Association would allow Indian researchers and institutions to apply directly for Horizon Europe funding, lead consortia and operate on equal terms with EU participants in return for a negotiated contribution.
- India currently participates through a co-funding mechanism that requires domestic ministries to finance Indian partners in EU projects.
- The move builds on the EU–India science agreement first signed in 2001 and renewed to 2030, as well as coordination under the Trade and Technology Council.
- Horizon Europe has a €95.5 billion budget for 2021–2027 and 22 associated non‑EU countries, with Japan’s association concluded in December 2025, Australia’s talks ongoing and Morocco’s paused.