NEP gets global push as UK-India trade deal recognises education as core pillar of strategic ties

India-UK Trade Deal Highlights Education Partnership

During Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the United Kingdom and the announcement of a refreshed UK-India Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, the British Council highlighted the pivotal role of education in deepening bilateral relations between the two nations.

Alison Barrett MBE, Country Director, British Council India, remarked that the renewed focus on education aligns closely with India’s National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, and will significantly enhance collaboration in this sector.

“At the British Council, we collaborate with the Government of India—both at the central and state levels—to support the internationalisation goals of NEP 2020,” Barrett said. “This shared vision creates a solid institutional base for meaningful and impactful partnerships.”

Barrett further welcomed the signing of the landmark UK-India Free Trade Agreement, which was announced during the high-level diplomatic visit, noting that it would “unlock thousands of jobs and drive economic growth in both countries.”

“I’m glad that education has been recognised as a core element of this partnership. It places young people from both the UK and India at the centre of this dynamic relationship,” she added.

Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Modi received a warm reception from the Indian diaspora in London, including students, professionals, and long-term residents. Sharing a message on X (formerly Twitter), Modi wrote:

“Touched by the warm welcome from the Indian community in the UK. Their affection and passion towards India's progress is truly heartening.”

For many attendees, the moment was described as both emotional and memorable, symbolising deep-rooted cultural ties and pride in India’s global standing.

As part of the visit, PM Modi and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer officially signed a historic trade deal projected to boost annual bilateral trade by £25.5 billion. The agreement is being hailed as India’s most comprehensive trade agreement to date and the UK’s most impactful post-Brexit deal.

In addition, the two countries unveiled the UK-India Vision 2035, a strategic framework outlining long-term cooperation in areas including technology, education, climate, defense, and mobility.

According to the British High Commission, Indian consumers will benefit from reduced tariffs on UK goods such as cars, cosmetics, and medical equipment—dropping from 15% to 3%. Conversely, UK consumers will see lower prices on Indian exports as well.

The British Council sees this renewed partnership as a catalyst for taking India’s NEP to a global scale. Key areas of focus include academic exchange programs, joint research projects, and the development of digital education tools, reinforcing education as a cornerstone of the growing India-UK relationship.