THE High Commissioner of India stopped off in Barnsley as part of a tour to develop a trade partnership with South Yorkshire.

Gaitri Issar Kumar was shown around the town centre’s Digital Media Centre, on County Way, last Friday by Barnsley Central MP Dan Jarvis, who is also Mayor of South Yorkshire.

She interacted with tech-based businesses interested in opportunities in India.

Gaitri said: “This has been a most useful visit - we experienced, first-hand, the uniquely creative ecosystem of the region.

“These centres of research and innovation, commercialisation of cutting-edge technology and its integration into applied science, healthcare, sports and defence manufacturing, have much to offer Indian industry.

“There is tremendous scope for enhanced collaboration between Indian institutions and UK counterparts in these sectors.”

Dan added: “This has been a brilliant opportunity to showcase South Yorkshire’s unparalleled strengths in innovation and industry, from rice processing to translational research.

“It’s a great step in the process of collaboration and exchange between our region and India which has such great potential for both sides.

“We’re learning, we’re building, and we’re deepening our partnership every day.”