Nidhi Gautam, a 19-year-old student from Karnataka, had a unique opportunity to serve as the British High Commissioner to India for a day. This rare experience allowed her to witness the UK-India partnership firsthand in New Delhi.
The British High Commission selected Nidhi from over 140 applicants across the country. She is currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in history and geography from Miranda House, Delhi University. The ‘High Commissioner for a Day’ competition, organized annually since 2017, coincides with the International Day of the Girl Child, observed on October 11.
As part of her day as high commissioner, Nidhi began with a breakfast briefing where she learned about the UK-India bilateral relationship, including the UK-India Technology Security Initiative announced in July. She then visited the National Centre for Assistive Health Technologies at IIT Delhi, gaining insights into how technology can support people with disabilities.
Nidhi also visited the National Institute of Immunology to observe how technology is advancing vaccine development in India. Throughout the day, she met with government officials and industry leaders, exploring areas of collaboration between the UK and India in sectors like biotechnology and solar energy.
Reflecting on her experience, Nidhi said, “Being the British High Commissioner for a Day was a transformative experience. I explored incredible innovations, from assistive technologies to breakthroughs in ‘femtech’ and solar energy. Each interaction showed me how technology can drive meaningful social change.”
The British High Commission highlighted that this initiative is part of its commitment to empowering girls and preparing them as future leaders, promoting freedoms for women and girls worldwide.
(With PTI inputs)
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