UK Minister for the Indo-Pacific, Anne-Marie Trevelyan, has just concluded a three-day visit to India during which plans for two new technology initiatives aimed at improving quality of life and enhancing action on climate change were formalised.
Trevelyan’s visit to the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu was aimed at strengthening the UK’s bilateral ties with India by deepening environmental cooperation and exploring cutting edge technologies, including on climate innovation. The minister announced two new technology partnerships with India that respond to global sustainability challenges and boost joint UK-India business innovation.
Trevelyan said: “The UK and India are close partners, joining together our unique expertise to work towards a shared goal: increasing security and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region.
“Our collaboration on a range of issues, including climate change, technology and maritime security, is crucial for addressing global challenges and building a more sustainable future for generations to come.”
Trevelyan visited the National Institute of Ocean Technology for insights into India’s deep-sea programs, marine systems, and vessel management. She then met Tamil Nadu’s Environment Forest and Climate Change Secretary to learn more about the UK's partnership with the state on climate, including the Climate Compatible Growth Programme. At Anna University’s Climate Studio, she reviewed the unique climate modelling systems on weather forecasting and rainfall prediction.
“To reaffirm the UK’s commitment to regional security, Minister Trevelyan will tour Indian manufacturing company Larsen and Toubro’s state-of-the art shipyard at Kattuppalli,” the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) said ahead of the visit between October 13 and 15.
Last year, India and the UK formed an Electric Propulsion Capability Partnership (EPCP), bringing together expertise from the Royal Navy and British industry with that of the Indian Navy and Larsen and Toubro.
“The partnership will be at the centre of industry innovation on the electrification of warships,” the FCDO added.
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The visit also included the launch of the UK-supported “Smart district” project alongside Tamil Nadu IT Minister Palanivel Thiaga Rajan, an initiative designed to help respond to global sustainability challenges by piloting the placement of sensors throughout the district to collect real-time data on water and waste management, and environmental quality.
According to the UK government, these sensors will identify patterns and trends to help inform decision making on resource allocation and management.
