This briefing provides background information for the mission of the Committee on Women’s Rights and Gender Equality (FEMM) to India on 16-20 February 2026. The mission will allow Members to assess the implementation of the EU Gender Action Plan III (GAP III) in India and evaluate how EU external action supports gender equality and women’s empowerment in a key strategic partner country and Indo-Pacific actor. It also offers an opportunity to engage with key national stakeholders, including representatives from government institutions, EU Delegation officials, civil society organisations, think tanks, and private-sector actors as well as social enterprises implementing gender-inclusive initiatives. The briefing first provides an overview of India’s political, social, and economic context. It then outlines EU-India relations, their strategic partnership, and the recently concluded Free Trade Agreement. Chapter three introduces the European Gender Action Plan III. Chapter four examines the current state of gender equality in India. Chapter five highlights the contribution of EU action in India. Finally, the briefing offers concluding remarks. Source : © European Union, 2026 - EP Read more