Evaluation of the EU-India science and technology agreement

This report evaluates the EU-India Science and Technology (S&T) Agreement, set to be renewed for 2025-2030. EU-India S&T cooperation has evolved through Horizon 2020 and Horizon Europe, with Indian participation in 88 projects. Key areas of collaboration include energy, health, water, information and communication technology (ICT), and innovation. Joint research initiatives have focused on smart grids, vaccine development, wastewater treatment, and artificial intelligence. The Trade and Technology Council (TTC) facilitates cooperation on green technologies, digital governance, and trade. There was a continuously high number of collaborative actions within the Horizon programmes, yet the share of participation of Indian partners decreased over time due to shifts in funding models, from joint calls to a co-funding mechanism. Human capital development and mobility has been strengthened through Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) and European Research Council (ERC) grants, but mobility from Europe to India could be higher. The report recommends clearer budget allocations, alignment with the TTC and building on strategic partnerships to reinforce cooperation.