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Key Points

British Deputy High Commissioner Caroline Rowett visited Kullu to explore the region's rich handloom heritage as she embarks on a three-day visit to Himachal Pradesh. Her trip coincides with discussions on the UK-India Free Trade Agreement (FTA), which touts tariff-free import benefits for UK businesses. Rowett is committed to enhancing bilateral trade ties, projected to grow significantly with the FTA's implementation. Her itinerary also includes engagements in tourism and hospitality sectors, reflecting the UK's broad interest in partnering with Himachal Pradesh.

Key Points: Caroline Rowett Explores Himachali Handloom Heritage and UK Trade Ties

  • UK Deputy High Commissioner visits Kullu for handloom insights
  • Emphasizes benefits of UK-India Free Trade Agreement
  • FTA aims to boost bilateral trade and GDP
2 min read

British Deputy High Commissioner evinces interest in Himachali handloom heritage

UK Deputy High Commissioner Rowett visits Himachal for handloom insights amid FTA discussions.

"UK businesses and consumers will have increased access to tariff-free imports from India. - Caroline Rowett"

Kullu, June 2

British Deputy High Commissioner, Caroline Rowett, on Monday visited the Bhuttico handloom cooperative in Kullu town as part of her three-day visit to the Kullu-Manali region of Himachal Pradesh.

During the visit, the UK delegation met Bhuttico’s management and interacted with artisans engaged in the creation of traditional Himachali handloom products.

Speaking on the textiles sector under the UK-India Free Trade Agreement (FTA), Rowett said, “UK businesses and consumers will also have increased access to tariff-free imports from India, with tariffs being eliminated on 99 per cent of Indian goods which could provide better choice, quality and affordability of a wide range of Indian products such as frozen shrimp, apparel and textiles.”

India and the UK concluded negotiations for the FTA last month, marking a significant step in strengthening bilateral economic ties.

Accompanying Political, Press and Projects Adviser for the UK government, Rajinder S Nagarkoti, the Deputy High Commissioner added, “The deal is expected to increase bilateral trade, worth 43 billion pound in year 2024, by 25.5 billion pound, UK GDP by 4.8 billion pound and wages by 2.2 billion pound each year in the long run.”

The UK-India investment relationship currently supports over 6,00,000 jobs across both countries. As of 2024, there are over 950 Indian-owned companies in the UK and over 650 UK companies in India.

On the timeline for the deal’s implementation, she stated, “We will now go through the final steps to sign this treaty and bring this deal into force as quickly as possible, whilst allowing for the necessary scrutiny, so it can deliver growth across the country.”

As part of her Kullu-Manali visit, Rowett is also engaging with stakeholders from the tourism and hospitality sectors, including hoteliers, tour operators, and skiers, to explore collaboration opportunities.

In February, Rowett met with Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Sukhu, where she highlighted the UK’s growing investment interests in the state. These include an agro-industry project in Kullu and the establishment of an Indian operation by a Scottish distillery, underscoring the strengthening economic relationship between the UK and Himachal Pradesh.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

Here are 6 diverse Indian perspective comments for the article:
A
Ankit S.
Great to see international interest in our Himachali handlooms! The FTA could be a game-changer for our artisans. Just hope the benefits actually reach the weavers and not just middlemen. Our Kullu shawls deserve global recognition 🇮🇳
P
Priya M.
As someone from Himachal, I'm proud but also cautious. Foreign investment is good but we must protect our traditional knowledge. Bhuttico has preserved our weaving heritage for decades - hope this deal doesn't lead to mass production that dilutes the craftsmanship.
R
Rahul K.
The numbers sound impressive but will this really create jobs in Himachal or just benefit big cities? Also curious about the Scottish distillery project - hope it respects our local culture and doesn't promote excessive drinking in the hills.
S
Sneha T.
Wonderful initiative! My grandmother used to weave these shawls. If this deal helps preserve our dying crafts while giving economic benefits, it's win-win. Maybe next they can explore our Kinnauri shawls too - the patterns tell ancient stories!
V
Vikram J.
While the economic benefits are clear, I hope the government ensures fair wages for artisans. Often in such deals, foreign companies make huge profits while workers get peanuts. Our weavers' skills are priceless - they deserve proper compensation.
N
Neha P.
The tourism collaborations interest me more! Himachal needs sustainable tourism models. Maybe UK expertise can help manage overtourism in Manali while preserving ecology. But please - no more concrete hotels destroying our mountains! 🌄

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