Networking Session with British Deputy High Commission

In an effort to forge stronger international collaborations, FLO Chennai recently held a significant meeting with representatives from the British Deputy High Commission in Chennai. Mr. Olliver Ballhatchet provided an overview of the visa process, highlighting that 0.5 million visas are issued per year, with the peak season for student visas occurring as applications for higher education are submitted. The Commission operates 10 offices in India, staffed by 850 employees and 130 British diplomats. They promote British businesses in India and attract investments from India to the UK, with India being the second largest investor in the UK over the past five years. The Commission is also working on projects with the Tamil Nadu government in the areas of energy and mobilization.

Mr. Ashwin, from the housekeeping department, explained their role in assisting British companies in India and Indian startups in the UK, particularly in the B2B sector, healthcare, life sciences, and legal intellectual property. Mr. Sujith discussed the engineering and manufacturing sector, mentioning companies like Kellogg’s. They support UK companies establishing in India and help Indian companies looking for technologies in the UK. Mr. Srinath from the business and trade department elaborated on lightweight projects, though specific details were not provided.

Ms. Smriti from the defense sector addressed cyber and home security, mentioning collaborations with companies such as Rolls Royce and HAL. She also highlighted academic collaborations, tying up universities for relevant courses. Ms. Shweta and Mr. Sandeep from the investment department discussed their efforts in working with tech companies in India, helping them choose desirable locations in the UK, obtaining sponsorship licenses, and assisting with company expansion. Mr. Kumar focused on energies, climate change, economies, and PPB, while Ms. Kripa from political and communication talked about developing a toolkit for business inclusion of the LGBT community.

During the Q&A session, various topics were addressed. They do not deal with education or internships. Discussions were held on the sectors supported by the UK and the possibility of expanding the list. The topic of ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) companies was raised, with some UK companies working on metal restoration. For labor-heavy industries like restaurants, the challenges of moving to the UK were discussed. The Commission helps restaurants set up in the UK by connecting them with project managers, conducting market-based research to identify target markets, and ensuring ease of doing business with a 24-hour minimum cap. They have programs for identifying areas of joint interest and frameworks for inclusion.

Regarding Indian doctors, it was clarified that they can send their products to the UK and form partnerships with nutraceuticals. However, they cannot practice privately as individuals but can do so if associated with a registered private hospital, working with the NHS on a contract basis under the “Earn, Learn, Return” program. The meeting concluded with a discussion on potential areas for further collaboration and support between India and the UK.

Number of people impacted: Thee were 84 attendees out of which 77 were women