India and the United Kingdom are poised to enhance their collaboration across various sectors, particularly with a focus on artificial intelligence (AI), tele-medicine, climate modelling, and agri-tech. This assertion was made by Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal during an event held by the UK India Business Council (UKIBC) in New Delhi on November 27.
The minister emphasised the vast potential for bilateral partnerships that could drive economic growth while simultaneously improving the quality of life for millions of individuals in both nations. He identified AI and virtual reality as transformative tools for the education and training sector, indicating that both countries can benefit significantly from cooperation in these technologies. Goyal also highlighted the potential of tele-medicine to reduce healthcare costs in the UK and enhance healthcare accessibility in remote regions of India.
In addition to healthcare, the commerce minister recognised the necessity of developing advanced climate modelling tools to aid in predicting and managing natural disasters, a growing concern in light of climate change. The discussion further touched upon agri-tech, advocating for precision farming and residue-free agricultural practices to boost productivity in the agricultural sector.
A noteworthy development at the event was the launch of the 'UK-India Technology Futures Report', which showcased promising technology partnerships that are not only generating jobs and economic growth in both nations but also addressing significant global challenges. The report outlines initiatives related to climate change, energy transition, food security, financial inclusion, and national security.
Richard McCallum, Chief Operating Officer of the UKIBC, reiterated the importance of these technology partnerships, noting that they play a crucial role in fostering shared prosperity and contribute positively to global issues.
The backdrop of this collaboration includes the recent signing of the Technology Security Initiative (TSI) and the announcement regarding the resumption of free trade agreement (FTA) discussions, which have contributed to a positive atmosphere around India-UK economic relations.
McCallum expressed optimism about the shared intent from both governments to fortify the existing Technology Partnership to address global challenges, particularly through the adoption of emerging technologies. The report argued that the UK is an ideal partner for India’s vision of Viksit Bharat (Developed India) by 2047 and proposed various recommendations to deepen cooperation in financial inclusion, energy transition, and advanced technologies as well as research and development.
This evolving partnership stands as a significant element of future economic strategies between the UK and India, with the potential to reshape multiple industries and societal frameworks.
Source: Noah Wire Services