As Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer holds high-level talks in India to strengthen UK-India bilateral ties, Neil Lal, chairman and president of The Indian Council of Scotland and United Kingdom, is simultaneously leading a critical trade and diplomacy mission to promote Scotland and the UK as premier destinations for Indian investment, entrepreneurship, and skilled migration.

Mr Lal’s visit coincides with a pivotal global moment: the United States’ recent announcement of a US$100,000 sponsorship fee for new H-1B visa applicants, a decision that could reshape global talent flows — particularly for Indian professionals, who receive the majority of such visas.

Recognising this shift, Mr Lal has launched a campaign to position Scotland and the wider UK as more welcoming, affordable, and strategically beneficial alternatives for Indian talent.

 “This is a historic moment,” said Lal. “India is on the rise, and the UK — especially Scotland — must be at the forefront of this growth. We’re here to build meaningful bridges, not just trade routes.”

In an announcement during his visit, Mr Lal confirmed that he is organising a state-level visit for Scottish government and business leaders to India in the coming months.

The visit, expected to take place in 2026, is being billed as a “historic opportunity to unlock a potential trade agreement” between India and Scotland/UK – focused on tech, green energy, education, and life sciences.

“This will be a landmark moment in Scotland-India relations,” said Mr Lal.

“We are laying the foundations for what could be one of the most significant trade and innovation partnerships of the decade.”

Indian leaders and business officials have welcomed Mr Lal’s efforts.

Rajesh Verma, secretary of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, stated: “Neil Lal has shown exceptional foresight in recognising the shifting global landscape. His work in promoting Scotland and the UK in India is both timely and visionary. We welcome his efforts to bring our countries even closer.”

Dr Anjali Mehra, director of India’s Centre for Global Partnerships, added: “Neil Lal has consistently advocated for deeper cooperation between India and the UK. His commitment to inclusive trade, cultural diplomacy, and talent exchange is a model for international engagement.”

Karan Shah, Vice President of the Indian Chamber of International Trade, said: “We are excited to work with Mr Lal in shaping the future of India-Scotland business ties.”

The US visa changes are expected to discourage thousands of Indian tech professionals and startups from pursuing opportunities in America. Mr Lal said this presents a “strategic opening” for Scotland.

“Scotland and the UK must offer fast-track, affordable visas, and build startup ecosystems that encourage innovation and entrepreneurship,” he added.

Speaking today in New Delhi, Mr Lal called for streamlined visa pathways for entrepreneurs and high-skilled workers; Reduced immigration fees for SMEs and startups; Promotion of UK advantages in India’s tech and business hubs. 

Mr Lal said that 1,200 Indian-owned companies now operate in the UK generating over £72 billion in revenue and employing over 126,000 people. 

He continued: “If the UK doesn’t move now, countries like Canada, Germany, and Australia will win the race for Indian talent and investment.

“That’s why Keir Starmer is currently in India but the big winner can still be Scotland. The Scottish Government has a very good track record when it comes to attracting inward investment.

“The Indian market presents a huge opportunity to vastly increase key Scottish exports from some of our best industries. The future of Scottish Indian trade relations must be now.”