Keir Starmer Unveils Plans for Nine British University Campuses in India
In a corner advertisement during his sanctioned visit to Mumbai, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer revealed that nine prestigious British universities will soon open premises across India, a move set to review the geography of transnational education.
“The demand for the best quality higher education is very high. So, I am really pleased to announce that more British Universities will be setting up campuses in India, making Britain India’s leading international provider of higher education and delivering on our vision 2035,” said PM Starmer during a joint press conference at Raj Bhawan.
The statement marks one of the most ambitious education hookups between the UK and India to date.
The plan underscores a growing community between the two nations, blending academic excellence with a participatory vision for invention and global literacy.
Education Meets Diplomacy
Starmer’s visit to Mumbai wasn’t just about handshakes and photo ops. It carried substance.
Backed by a delegation of 125 top British industry leaders, the Prime Minister’s trip is part of a broader agenda to deepen economic and cultural links.
Further cementing – education cooperation.
PM @narendramodi & PM @Keir_Starmer met with Vice Chancellors of top UK universities. Nine leading UK universities will be establishing their campuses in India. pic.twitter.com/BtK3W1b3l3
— Randhir Jaiswal (@MEAIndia) October 9, 2025
Lancaster University is among the first to move forward, with a Letter of Intent now confirmed for its new campus in Bengaluru.
Meanwhile, the University of Surrey has secured in-principle approval for its upcoming site at GIFT City, Gujarat.
The goal? To make the UK the leading global partner for Indian students seeking world-class education closer to home.
No New Visa Deal on the Table
While the news of academic expansion stole the spotlight, Starmer made it clear that visa reforms are not part of the current plan.
“That isn’t part of the plans,” he clarified when asked about potential new visa agreements with India.
The Prime Minister reaffirmed that the focus remains forcefully on using the UK-India Free Trade Agreement, inked in July and due to take effect coming time.
This trade pact, according to Downing Street sources, aims to bolster cooperation in business, exploration, and education, crucial pillars in Starmer’s long-term strategy for global cooperation.
A New Chapter in UK–India Relations
Education has long been a bridge between Britain and India. With this recent action, Starmer is erecting on that heritage, not simply as a political gesture but as a strategic investment in participatory futures.
The opening of British university premises in India is anticipated to stimulate common exploration systems, faculty exchanges, and invention capitals, bringing scholars from both nations closer than ever ahead.
As Starmer continues to support Britain’s global post-Brexit, this educational outreach stands as a testament to his government’s belief in collaboration over insulation.
A bold step. A smart move. And maybe, the morning of a new period in UK–India educational tactfulness.
