The UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s first official visit to India came up with a whole slate of deals and initiatives.
In a clear sign that the two nations are looking forward to up team up more closely, the UK and India has decided to work together on everything from AI and critical minerals to new university campuses and cultural projects.
The tone wasn’t just about headlines or handshakes: both sides are thinking long-term, looking to spark innovation, grow their economies, and build a stronger partnership in the Indo-Pacific.
UK PM’s India visit: 10 key outcomes so far
1. India-UK Joint Centre for AI – India and the UK are teaming up to create a joint AI centre.
The goal? To promote responsible and trustworthy AI across areas like health, climate, fintech, and bioengineering, while giving researchers and innovators from both countries a chance to collaborate closely.
2. Phase II of the Critical Minerals Supply Chain Observatory – The UK-India observatory for critical minerals is leveling up.
With new tech, real-time data systems, and a satellite campus at IIT-ISM Dhanbad, it’s all about building skills and strengthening supply chains for vital minerals like lithium, cobalt, and copper.
3. Critical Minerals Industry Guild – A new guild is being set up to create secure and sustainable mineral supply chains while supporting green technologies.
It’s designed to foster industrial partnerships that are good for both the economy and the environment.
4. Lancaster University in Bengaluru – Lancaster University is planning a new campus in Bengaluru. This is a big boost for UK-India educational ties, offering more opportunities for research, innovation, and students on both sides.
5. University of Surrey at GIFT City, Gujarat – The University of Surrey has got the green light to open a campus at GIFT City, Gujarat’s financial hub.
They will be offering courses in AI, cybersecurity, business, and finance, helping India’s tech and economic modernization take off.
6. India-UK CEO Forum – The revamped CEO Forum has kicked off, focusing on boosting business ties, investments, and collaboration between India and the UK.
It’s a key step toward supporting the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) and driving economic growth.
7. $468 Million Missile Deal – UK defence company Thales will supply lightweight multirole missiles to the Indian Army.
The missiles will be produced in Northern Ireland, supporting about 700 UK jobs. This deal is a big piece of the growing defence partnership between the two nations.
8. Bollywood Films in the UK– Three major Bollywood films will be shot in the UK starting early 2026, ending an eight-year break in production.
This isn’t just about cinema as it is expected to create thousands of jobs and boost the UK economy, while also strengthening cultural connections.
9. More UK University Campuses in India – Plans are in the works for nine UK university campuses in India, including the already opened Southampton University campus in Gurugram.
These campuses will make it easier for students and researchers to collaborate and will expand the UK’s presence in Indian higher education.
10. Broader Strategic Cooperation – India and the UK are also joining forces across multiple sectors, from secure 6G, cybersecurity, and telecom research to biotech, health, climate tech startups, and offshore wind.
It’s a sign that their partnership is becoming deeper and more multifaceted than ever.
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