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The Hindu
6 hours ago
- Business
- The Hindu
Lighting the spark in U.K.-India cultural relations
May was a month of magical bonanza for United Kingdom-India relations. The long-anticipated Free Trade Agreement was ratified by both Prime Ministers, and it was another milestone that illuminated a different but equally significant dimension of their partnership: culture. On May 2, U.K. Secretary of State for Culture, Rt Hon Lisa Nandy, and India's Minister for Culture, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, signed the Programme of Cultural Cooperation (POCC). This landmark agreement promises to light up the cultural corridor between the two nations, reaffirming their shared creative spirit. The POCC outlines five programme areas: digital technologies for culture, exhibitions and collections, performances and events, cultural property, and sustainability. These themes directly support the creative economy, a core sector driving the U.K. government's industrial strategy. This agreement signals a shared commitment to cross-cultural collaboration and economic growth. Before arriving in Delhi to sign the POCC, Ms. Nandy, the first Labour Cabinet Minister of Indian heritage, was the highest-ranking international delegate at the World Audio Visual & Entertainment Summit (WAVES) Summit, held in Mumbai. In her keynote, she powerfully highlighted the collaborative potential of the India-U.K. cultural and creative industries, sustainable by nature and an employment multiplier. The growth of the creative arts sector Globally, the creative arts sector is rapidly growing, projected to reach 10% of global GDP by 2030. At the G-20 New Delhi Leaders' Summit in 2023, global leaders unanimously called for greater investment in the sector. India hosting WAVES for the first time underscored its commitment, resulting in significant business deals and international agreements. The POCC between India and the U.K. builds on this momentum. It brings together the Indian Ministry of Culture, the U.K. government's Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport and the British Council in India, alongside major U.K. cultural institutions — including Arts Council England, the British Library, the British Museum, the Natural History Museum, and the Science Museum Group. With over 1,700 accredited museums in the U.K., the scope for partnerships with their Indian counterparts is tremendous, especially around leveraging digital technology for sharing cultural experiences and heritage. At its core, the POCC signals hope: the creative economy can foster a more inclusive future, encompassing tech-driven sectors such as gaming, digital content, film, OTT, television and more — creating opportunities for skilled workers and innovators. That is great news for India. With its deep cultural heritage, cutting-edge technology, skilled artisan base, and the world's largest youth population, India is uniquely positioned to lead. India's creative economy, valued at $35 billion, employs nearly 8% of its workforce, second only to agriculture. According to the Asian Development Bank's report (2022), 'Creative India: Tapping the Full Potential', six of India's top 10 creative hubs — from Badgam in Jammu and Kashmir to Tiruppur in Tamil Nadu — are in non-metro regions. This shows India's diverse cultural heritage. India, with over 300 universities and 3,000 colleges offering courses in design, arts, and architecture, is nurturing a global creative workforce. A role for the U.K. In 2023, during India's G-20 presidency, the U.K. played a pivotal role in supporting the cultural agenda. Artistic partnerships, creative project grants, and year-long cultural exchanges, such as Wales in India, which culminated at the 2024 Hornbill Festival in Nagaland, furthered that agenda bilaterally, redefining India-U.K. cultural ties and building lasting bonds. Why do these global partnerships matter so much? First, the creative economy is evolving rapidly. It faces challenges including skilled labour shortage. To meet this, we need sustained investment in education, vocational training and apprenticeships. International collaborations can help empower creative professionals with global competencies and best practices. Second, emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence and augmented reality and virtual reality (AR/VR) are transforming the sector. As the British Council's recent report, Arts and Technologies in India: Reimagining the Future argues, it is time to integrate it into India's creative education framework. Cultural exchange and cross-border partnerships can support professionals in navigating this digital shift. India's creative canvas is expanding, driven by cultural wealth, youth potential, and a bold vision. Prime Minister Narendra Modi envisions India as a global creative hub — and with a three-pronged approach focused on education, skills, and international collaboration, we are well on our way. But it will require sustained cooperation between government, industry and academia to make that vision a reality. Businesses and projects Indian companies, too, are doing their bit. Take Royal Enfield, the iconic U.K.-India motorcycle brand, which is working in the Himalayas through its Social Mission. In partnership with UNESCO, it is helping to safeguard intangible cultural heritage and working with over 580 artisans through its textile conservation project, The Himalayan Knot. This initiative not only preserves sustainable textile traditions but also creates new market linkages for craft communities. Ms. Nandy heard this story first hand at the reception hosted in her honour by British High Commissioner Lindy Cameron and this writer in Delhi, where the Serendipity Arts Festival's Birmingham chapter was also launched — a moving reminder of how businesses can be storytellers too. What truly binds the U.K. and India together are their people and their stories. In a world grappling with conflict and uncertainty, culture and creativity remain among the most time-tested healers of relations between people and nations. And in that, we have every reason to celebrate — and invest in — the creative spark that unites us. Alison Barrett, MBE, is the Country Director India at the British Council
The Hindu
a day ago
- Politics
- The Hindu
Kashmir tourism likely to rebound to pre-Pahalgam levels by year's end: Minister
Union Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, speaking on Thursday (June 19, 2025), said that there were signs that tourism to Kashmir, which saw a dip after the Pahalgam attack on April 22, would likely return to normal by the year's end. 'The way tourism has recovered in J&K over the last 1.5 months, we will be able to achieve pre-Pahalgam status by December,' Mr. Shekhawat said. Appealing to people to join the Amarnath Yatra, starting from July 3, Mr. Shekhawat said, 'Kashmir is safe, and tourists should visit the valley. I appeal to the 140-crore people of India to try and see Kashmir's heritage and its historical grandeur and divinity, along with its natural beauty.' In a post on X, the Union Minister said he visited the majestic Martand Temple, 'which is a profound reflection of the glory of Kashmir's civilisational past'. 'Built by the legendary King Lalitaditya, this grand temple dedicated to Surya was one of the earliest and most magnificent sun temples in India,' Mr. Shekhawat said. 'If it looks this awe-inspiring in its weathered form, one can imagine its grandeur of yore given the temple's scale, sculptural richness, and strategic location atop a plateau overlooking the valley,' he added. Cultural glory About the Avanti Swami temple in the Awantipora area of the Pulwama district, the Union Minister said he had an enchanted morning at the temple complex. 'These stones that are remains of the mighty temples once built by King Avantivarman in what was once his capital tell tales of the cultural glory of that era,' he added. The Union Minister also met J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah. An official said the duo 'discussed strategic measures for strengthening the tourism sector in Jammu and Kashmir.' The one-on-one meeting focused on a broad range of initiatives aimed at boosting tourism infrastructure, promoting heritage and cultural sites, and creating sustainable livelihood opportunities for local communities, the official said. Both the leaders underscored the significance of tourism as a key driver of economic growth and cultural exchange in the region. Mr. Abdullah, the spokesman, expressed appreciation for the Centre's continued support and reiterated the Government of Jammu and Kashmir's resolve to revive and reimagine the tourism sector to unlock its full potential for inclusive development.
United News of India
a day ago
- Politics
- United News of India
Pahalgam buzzes with tourists weeks after Operation Sindoor: Union Tourism Minister
Srinagar, Jun 19 (UNI) Union Minister of Culture and Tourism, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat on Thursday said the scenic town of Pahalgam in south Kashmir is once again bustling with tourists over a month after the Operation Sindoor. The Union minister, who arrived in Srinagar on Wednesday, visited Pahalgam today 'A peaceful day in Pahalgam, buzzing with tourists and calm barely a month after Operation Sindoor. It speaks volumes of the resilience of the people and the vision & commitment of PM @narendramodi ji for the development of the region,' Shekhawat posted on X while sharing a video of his interaction with tourists in Pahalgam. 'Tourism-driven growth, grassroots development, and renewed confidence- this is Naya Kashmir, the shining crown of New India,' he added. The April 22 Pahalgam terror attack which left 25 tourists and a local dead has dealt a crushing blow to Kashmir's tourism industry. After the attack, India launched "Operation Sindoor" which brought the two countries to the brink of war. 'A heavy heart but one filled with hope in Pahalgam this noon. Visited the site of the dastardly terror attack and interacted with locals and tourists who have brought the region back to its lively spirit and everyday rhythm. The strength of the people, their unwavering hospitality, and the quiet resolve to not let fear define them. This is the real soul of Kashmir,' the Minister said in a separate post. The Union Minister also held an interaction with local hoteliers in Pahalgam. '..Gave me great joy to interact with tourists soaking in the valley's beauty, and to spent time with local hoteliers and hospitality entrepreneurs understanding both their challenges and opportunities. The quiet determination of the local hospitality business community to keep Kashmir welcoming and vibrant is truly heartening,' Shekhawat said. The Union Minister also met Sajjad Ahmad Bhatt, the courageous young man who carried an injured young tourist on his back for several kilometres after the Pahalgam terror attack. 'In a moment of fear and chaos, he chose courage & humanity above all. His selfless act is the real reflection of the spirit of Kashmir - brave, compassionate, and unwavering,' the Minister said. Meanwhile, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Wednesday evening held a detailed meeting with the Union Minister for Tourism, to discuss strategic measures for strengthening the tourism sector in Jammu and Kashmir. The one-on-one meeting focused on a broad range of initiatives aimed at boosting tourism infrastructure, promoting heritage and cultural sites, and creating sustainable livelihood opportunities for local communities. Both leaders underscored the significance of tourism as a key driver of economic growth and cultural exchange in the region, an official spokesman said. During the interaction, Union Minister Shekhawat emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts, stating that such engagements reflect 'our collective commitment to transform Jammu and Kashmir into a global tourism destination that celebrates its culture, nature, and people.' Chief Minister expressed appreciation for the Centre's continued support and reiterated the Government of Jammu and Kashmir's resolve to revive and reimagine the tourism sector to unlock its full potential for inclusive development. UNI MJR RKM
The Print
2 days ago
- The Print
Centre, J-K committed to safety of Amarnath pilgrims: Shekhawat
'People should come for the Amarnath yatra. The Amarnath yatra is safe, the Government of India and the state government are committed and you will not get even a scratch,' Shekhawat told PTI Videos after visiting the temple. Shekhawat, who visited the Martand Sun Temple at Mattan in south Kashmir's Anantnag district, also appealed to the pilgrims to preserve the environment and natural beauty of the valley. Anantnag (J-K), Jun 19 (PTI) Union Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat on Thursday assured top most security to the Amarnath Yatra pilgrims. The Amarnath yatra will be held from July 3 to August 9. Shekhawat also visited the nearby tourist resort of Pahalgam where terrorists struck on April 22 killing 25 tourists and a local pony operator. He said Kashmir is safe and tourists should visit the valley not only to see its natural beauty but also its rich cultural heritage. 'I appeal to the 140 crore people of India to try to see Kashmir's heritage, and its historical grandeur and divinity, along with its natural beauty as well,' he added. To a question about the preservation of famous historical monuments in the valley, the Union minister said some restoration works have been carried out, but there is a need to do more. 'Those monuments which come under the Archaeological Survey of India, the organisation works for their protection, and the state government protects those assets which come under the state archaeology. 'I have seen restoration works have been carried out and they have been carried out very well, but there is a need to work more earnestly on this heritage, which is centuries-old, and we are doing that, so that the people of the country take pride on their heritage in the future as well,' he said. The Union minister also took to X after his visit to the temple. 'Visited the majestic Martand Temple, that is a profound reflection of the glory of Kashmir's civilisational past. Built by the legendary King Lalitaditya, this grand temple dedicated to Surya was one of the earliest and most magnificent sun temples in India,' Shekhawat said in a post on X. 'If it looks this awe-inspiring in its weathered form, one can imagine its grandeur of yore given the temple's scale, sculptural richness, and strategic location atop a plateau overlooking the valley,' he added. The minister also visited the Avanti Swami temple in Awantipora area of Pulwama district. 'An enchanted morning at the Avantipora temple complex in Kashmir today. These stones that are remains of the mighty temples once built by King Avantivarman in what was once his capital tell tales of the cultural glory of that era. 'With the picturesque Himalayan mountains for a backdrop, these are sites that take one on a journey through time,' he said. Shekhawat said he reviewed the tourist facilities and upkeep efforts being undertaken there along with officials of the ASI and district administration. The Union minister on Tuesday visited Mata Kheer Bhavani temple in Tulamulla, and Naranag Temple complex in central Kashmir's Ganderbal. Later on Tuesday evening, the Union minister held an interaction with J-K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah. 'During my visit to Jammu & Kashmir, I was graciously invited for a dinner interaction by Hon'ble Chief Minister Shri Omar Abdullah Ji. In a warm and cordial atmosphere, we held a positive and forward-looking discussion on the development of the tourism sector in J&K,' the minister wrote on X. He said emphasis was laid on enhancing infrastructure, promoting heritage sites, and creating sustainable livelihood opportunities for local communities through tourism. 'Such engagements reflect our collective commitment to transform Jammu & Kashmir into a global tourism destination that celebrates its culture, nature, and people,' he added. PTI COR SSB KND DV DV This report is auto-generated from PTI news service. ThePrint holds no responsibility for its content.
News18
2 days ago
- News18
'Centre, J&K Committed To Safety Of Amarnath Pilgrims': Gajendra Shekhawat As Yatra Begins From July 3
Union Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat assured top most security to the Amarnath Yatra pilgrims. Nearly a month after tourism was hit by a terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir, Union Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat on Thursday assured topmost security to the Amarnath Yatra pilgrims. Shekhawat also appealed to the pilgrims to preserve the environment and natural beauty of the valley. "People should come for the Amarnath yatra. The Amarnath yatra is safe, the Government of India and the state government are committed and you will not get even a scratch," Shekhawat was quoted as saying by news agency PTI after he visited the Martand Sun Temple at Mattan in south Kashmir's Anantnag district. The Amarnath yatra will be held from July 3 to August 9. Shekhawat also visited the nearby tourist resort in Pahalgam. On April 22, a terror attack killed 25 tourists and a local pony operator sending shockwaves in the entire country. He said Kashmir is safe and tourists should visit the valley not only to see its natural beauty but also its rich cultural heritage. "I appeal to the 140 crore people of India to try to see Kashmir's heritage, and its historical grandeur and divinity, along with its natural beauty as well," he added. To a question about the preservation of famous historical monuments in the valley, the Union minister said some restoration works have been carried out, but there is a need to do more. The Union minister also took to X after his visit to the temple. "Visited the majestic Martand Temple, that is a profound reflection of the glory of Kashmir's civilisational past. Built by the legendary King Lalitaditya, this grand temple dedicated to Surya was one of the earliest and most magnificent sun temples in India," Shekhawat said in a post on X. "If it looks this awe-inspiring in its weathered form, one can imagine its grandeur of yore given the temple's scale, sculptural richness, and strategic location atop a plateau overlooking the valley," he added. The minister also visited the Avanti Swami temple in Awantipora area of Pulwama district. Shekhawat said he reviewed the tourist facilities and upkeep efforts being undertaken there along with officials of the ASI and district administration. The Union minister on Tuesday visited Mata Kheer Bhavani temple in Tulamulla, and Naranag Temple complex in central Kashmir's Ganderbal. He also held an interaction with J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah. "During my visit to Jammu & Kashmir, I was graciously invited for a dinner interaction by Hon'ble Chief Minister Shri Omar Abdullah Ji. In a warm and cordial atmosphere, we held a positive and forward-looking discussion on the development of the tourism sector in J&K," the minister wrote on X. He said emphasis was laid on enhancing infrastructure, promoting heritage sites, and creating sustainable livelihood opportunities for local communities through tourism. (With agency inputs) First Published: June 19, 2025, 14:53 IST
