On Thursday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a joint press conference with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer following the signature of the much-anticipated Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between India and the UK. During the conference, PM Modi employed a cricket analogy to describe the relationship between the two nations, stating, 'For us, cricket is not just a game, it's a passion and a brilliant example of our partnership.'
'We Always Play with a Straight Bat'
'Sometimes the bat misses, but we always play with a straight bat. We are committed to establishing a high-scoring and robust partnership,' he asserted. In cricket, playing with a 'straight bat' refers to batting defensively and with discipline. Through this statement, PM Modi conveyed that the Indo-UK bond is founded on honesty, transparency, and open dialogue.
'Not Just Curry, the Indians Bring Much More...'
This particular comment gains special significance as the Indian men's cricket team plays the fourth Test under the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy in the UK. Praising the Indian diaspora residing in the UK, Prime Minister Modi highlighted their vital role in strengthening bilateral ties. 'The Indians here brought much more than curry; they brought creativity, commitment, and character. Their contributions are not confined to Britain's economy but are also evident in its culture, sports, and public service sectors,' he said.
Indians' Contribution to the UK Economy
During the 1950s and 1960s, when large numbers of Indians immigrated to Britain, they established restaurants and takeaway businesses. Dishes like chicken tikka masala and vindaloo became popular, while the term 'curry' became synonymous with Indian cuisine. Over time, with their diligence and achievements, Indian immigrants transformed this perception. According to the 2021 UK census, approximately 1.9 million people of Indian origin reside in the UK, playing an instrumental role in empowering the country's economy.
Indian Diaspora Providing Employment
Grant Thornton's 2021 report revealed that 850 businesses run by Indian immigrants in the UK generated a turnover of £50.8 billion and provided employment to over 116,000 people. Major Indian industrial groups like Vedanta Resources, Boparan Holdings, and the Hinduja Group have created thousands of jobs across sectors including hospitality, healthcare, manufacturing, and retail.
