A delegation from the European Parliament’s Industry, Research and Energy Committee met with India’s Union Minister of State for Science and Technology, Dr Jitendra Singh, on 22 September 2026. The discussions centred on putting the India-EU Free Trade Agreement into practice and expanding collaboration between the two regions in science, technology and emerging fields.
What was discussed
The European Parliament delegation, led by Angelika Winzig from Austria and Raffaele Stancanelli, stressed that India is a key strategic partner for the European Union. They sought to understand India’s industrial and technology policies and find common ground on industrial competitiveness, secure supply chains, and the green and digital transitions.
Dr Jitendra Singh outlined India’s research and innovation priorities as part of the government’s Viksit Bharat 2047 vision. He highlighted two major initiatives: the Anusandhan National Research Foundation and a EUR 10 billion Research, Development and Innovation scheme aimed at supporting high-risk research and deep-tech startups.
The Minister called for expanded cooperation in artificial intelligence, quantum technologies, advanced materials, biotechnology, semiconductors, and next-generation telecommunications including 6G. On semiconductors specifically, he pointed out that India’s growing sector and the EU’s push for resilient supply chains create opportunities to work together on research, innovation and ecosystem development.
The two sides also discussed clean and green technologies. Under the India-EU Trade and Technology Council, EUR 60 million in joint investment over four years has been committed to collaborative research on waste-to-hydrogen conversion, marine pollution and recycling of electric vehicle batteries. An innovation hub on electric vehicle charging technologies and testing is being developed as a joint platform. Both regions are also sharing knowledge on hydrogen valleys and working towards common safety standards.
Regarding India’s participation in Horizon Europe, the EU’s research funding programme, Dr Singh said negotiations are advancing well with broad agreement on most issues, though some legal, financial and institutional matters remain under discussion.
What this means for you
If you work in research, technology or innovation sectors, these discussions could open doors to partnerships and funding opportunities with European institutions and companies. Indian startups in clean technology, semiconductors and artificial intelligence may find new investment and collaboration possibilities. Students and researchers pursuing studies in frontier areas may gain access to joint research projects and European research infrastructure through expanded India-EU partnerships.