Suryaa International Desk: India and the European Union have successfully concluded discussions regarding India's participation in the Horizon Europe research and innovation funding program, which is valued at 93.5 billion euros (approximately Rs 8.4 lakh crore). The European Commission has officially confirmed the development. The agreement is set to come into effect in January 2027, following the completion of formal signing and approval processes.
Through this partnership, Indian scientists, research institutions, universities, and startups will be eligible to receive research grants directly from the European Commission. Indian representatives will be permitted to lead international research projects under the Pillar-2 division of the program. This initiative facilitates joint research in sectors including health, artificial intelligence, digital technologies, space, climate change, energy, and the bio-economy.
The European Commission stated that this development strengthens the strategic and technological ties between India and the EU. India has been granted a high level of partnership priority, similar to that offered to other non-EU nations. India joins a list of 23 non-EU countries already participating in the program, such as the United Kingdom, Canada, Japan, South Korea, and Switzerland. Experts note that this inclusion provides significant opportunities for the domestic research sector and business innovation.