UK

India and the United Kingdom have advanced discussions on the proposed Free Trade Agreement (FTA), with New Delhi indicating a calibrated and flexible stance on data localisation—one of the central negotiation points. While India remains committed to safeguarding digital sovereignty and consumer privacy, the government is exploring frameworks that balance regulatory control with industry competitiveness and cross-border data flows.

The recently signed UK-India trade agreement marks a pivotal moment in bilateral economic relations, aiming to expand commerce, reduce tariffs, and facilitate investment flows. The pact is expected to enhance market access for Indian goods, particularly in pharmaceuticals, IT services, and engineering, while providing UK firms greater entry into India’s burgeoning consumer and manufacturing sectors. Beyond trade, the agreement strengthens cooperation in innovation, technology, and sustainable infrastructure.

Steel magnate Lakshmi N. Mittal, one of Britain’s richest individuals, is reportedly relinquishing his UK tax residency as new wealth taxes loom under the Labour government. The 75-year-old, now a tax resident of Switzerland, plans to spend more time in Dubai, where he already owns property. Tax advisers suggest that inheritance tax—not income or capital gains—is his primary concern, as his global assets could be subject to the UK’s 40 per cent death duties. His departure underscores a broader trend of ultra-high-net-worth individuals exiting the UK amid uncertain fiscal policy.

Ultraviolette Automotive has expanded its global footprint by entering the United Kingdom with its flagship F77 electric motorcycle range, marking a significant milestone in India’s rapidly growing EV export story. The move positions the Bengaluru-based manufacturer in one of Europe’s most competitive two-wheeler markets, where demand for premium electric mobility solutions continues to surge.

Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) has won a significant contract from the United Kingdom’s National Health Service (NHS) Supply Chain, marking another milestone in the company’s global expansion in healthcare technology. The agreement positions TCS as a key partner in modernizing the NHS’s procurement operations through advanced digital systems, automation tools, and data-driven solutions. This deal reflects the growing demand for high-performance IT infrastructure in public healthcare, where operational efficiency and timely delivery of essential medical supplies are critical.

In a unified display of condemnation, senior UK government officials have strongly denounced the recent terrorist attack in Delhi, which claimed multiple lives and injured dozens. British leaders expressed deep sympathy for the victims and solidarity with India, calling for reinforced global cooperation in combating extremism. The attack, which targeted a crowded district of the Indian capital, has reignited international conversations about the persistence of terror networks and the necessity for strengthened counterterrorism frameworks across borders.

The passing of Gopichand Hinduja, chairman of the Hinduja Group and one of India’s most influential global business figures, has drawn heartfelt tributes from political leaders, industry stalwarts, and global institutions. Widely regarded as a driving force behind strengthening India-UK economic relations, G.P. Hinduja’s legacy extends far beyond his corporate achievements. His visionary leadership, philanthropic contributions, and deep commitment to cross-border collaboration made him a towering figure in global business diplomacy.

Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), India’s largest IT services company, has announced a strategic partnership with UK-based supermarket chain Morrisons to advance the retailer’s digital transformation initiatives. The collaboration aims to modernize Morrisons’ core technology infrastructure, enhance customer experiences, and streamline supply chain operations. By leveraging TCS’s extensive expertise in cloud, AI, and data-driven platforms, the partnership seeks to strengthen Morrisons’ competitive edge in the rapidly evolving retail landscape.

India and the United Kingdom have announced a strategic repositioning of the Joint Economic and Trade Committee (JETCO) to accelerate bilateral trade, investment, and economic cooperation. The move seeks to streamline dialogue, address trade barriers, and enhance collaboration in sectors such as technology, manufacturing, and services. Analysts view this as a timely initiative amid evolving global economic dynamics, with both nations aiming to capitalize on complementary strengths and emerging opportunities.

Karwa Chauth, a revered festival celebrated by married Hindu women, transcends geographical boundaries, with devotees observing the fast in countries like the United States, United Kingdom, and Canada. In 2025, the festival falls on Thursday, October 16, aligning with local time zones for accurate ritual observance. Women fast from sunrise to moonrise, praying for the well-being and longevity of their spouses. Observing key rituals—including sargi consumption, puja offerings, and moon sighting—is central to the celebration.