UK and India Sign Landmark Agreement to Boost Creative Industries and Economic Growth

Ziraat Times Team Report

Mumbai/New Delhi: The United Kingdom and India have signed a major new bilateral agreement to deepen ties across arts, culture, tourism, and sport, aiming to boost creative collaboration and economic growth in both nations.

UK Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport Lisa Nandy, who is currently leading a cultural delegation in India, signed the Cultural Cooperation Agreement today with India’s Minister for Culture and Tourism, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, during a three-day official visit to Mumbai and New Delhi.

The agreement is expected to pave the way for expanded UK creative exports to India and facilitate partnerships between British and Indian museums and cultural institutions, further strengthening the UK’s global soft power.

“This agreement opens up fresh opportunities for collaboration, innovation and economic growth,” said Lisa Nandy. “Growing up with proud Indian heritage, I have seen how the UK’s cultural richness is shaped by the Indian diaspora. It’s an honour to return to India to forge even closer ties.”

Nandy was joined by senior figures from VisitBritain, the British Film Institute, and the Science Museum, with the goal of enhancing collaboration between creative enterprises and institutions in both countries.

During her visit, the Culture Secretary delivered a keynote speech at the World Audio Visual and Entertainment Summit (WAVES) in Mumbai—attended by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi—highlighting the UK’s global standing in film, television, and music. She also toured Yash Raj Films Studio, a major hub of Bollywood filmmaking popular with British audiences.

This evening, Nandy will attend a marquee event at the British Council in Delhi, where she will preview performances from India’s Serendipity Arts Festival, which will stage events in Birmingham and London. At the same event, VisitBritain CEO Patricia Yates will launch the Starring GREAT Britain campaign in India, promoting UK tourism through iconic film and TV locations.

Additional highlights of her trip include:

• Meeting with Indian fashion designers in Delhi’s Okhla neighbourhood with strong UK links.

• Engagements with female cricketers at Sharad Pawar Sports Club ahead of India hosting the 2025 Women’s Cricket World Cup.

• A visit with Premier League Primary Stars coaches—a joint initiative with the British Council to support sports education in Indian schools.

• Scheduled meetings with Indian investors, cultural figures, and business leaders.

Leading British-Indian creatives have welcomed the announcement. Actor and writer Sanjeev Bhaskar praised the agreement, saying, “The creative industries are a powerful way to bring people together. I hope this visit strengthens our shared artistic journey.”

Renowned filmmaker Gurinder Chadha added, “As someone who has celebrated the British-Punjabi identity in my work, I’m thrilled to see our cultural connections deepen under Lisa Nandy’s leadership. This deal opens exciting new doors for artists on both sides.”

The UK government has identified the creative sector as a key growth driver in its Plan for Change, and this agreement represents a significant step in delivering on that strategy through strengthened international partnerships.