Next chapter of India-UK partnership in science

The partnership in science and technology is strong and can now pivot to take on new responsibilities for sustainable development of the two countries

- K VijayRaghavan

The visit of UK Prime Minister (PM) Keir Starmer to India signifies an acceleration of the bilateral relationship, moving beyond traditional cooperation toward a formalised, high-stakes alignment. This trajectory is rooted in the India-UK Vision 2035, a document that sets ambitious goals aimed at delivering “transformative opportunities and tangible benefits” for both nations, which was announced during PM Narendra Modi’s June 2025 visit to the UK.

Structured scientific collaboration between the two countries began at the Ist UK-India Science & Innovation Task Force in 2014. These initial agreements formed the basis for targeted funding mechanisms, such as the Newton Bhabha programme, which drives foundational research. Core pillars were later established under the India-UK Technology Security Initiative (TSI) of 2024.

The operationalisation of the TSI, which is jointly monitored by the national security advisers of both countries and undergoes biannual reviews, demonstrates that technological collaboration is now inextricably linked to national security and economic resilience. This high level of scrutiny and integration ensures that cooperation in key and emerging technologies —from Artificial Intelligence (AI) to critical minerals — is prioritised for immediate, tangible early-harvest results. The cooperation extends to advanced technologies through initiatives such as the Electric Propulsion Capability Partnership (EPCP) and Jet Engine Advanced Core Technologies (JEACT).

The India-UK relationship has also established a deep foundation for facilitating long-term joint R&D in areas such as semiconductors, quantum computing, biotechnology, and advanced materials.