India and France's year of innovation
India and France have designated 2026 as the India–France Year of Innovation, with a focus on AI, digital technology, science and start-ups.
Why it matters
India and France have one of Europe's closest partnerships with India, spanning defence, space, nuclear energy, aerospace and digital technology. The Year of Innovation adds a focus on start-ups, research and AI, building on the AI summits both countries have hosted.
What it brings
- Events and forums in both countries bringing together companies, start-ups and researchers
- Programmes to help start-ups enter each other's markets
- Research and university partnerships
- Visibility for Indian talent in France and French expertise in India
For Indian companies
2026 is a good year to explore France: the programmes create introductions and attention that are harder to get in other years. See setting up in France.
For professionals
France's Talent passport categories cover researchers, entrepreneurs and employees of innovative companies. Indian graduates of French institutions have additional advantages. See working in France.
