The rapid digitalisation across the globe, the need for constant innovation and research in order for industries and countries to bolster their economic growth and geostrategic interests means there is an urgent need and focus on education and skills. In addition, corporates and businesses across the world are looking to upskill their workforce to adapt to the needs of a post-pandemic world. This Boardroom explores various trends in the skills landscape from remote learning and skilling to identify new opportunities for investment, best practices and outcome-driven strategies to overcome challenges on the ground.

The global pandemic coupled with the spate of natural events that have taken place around the world - from wildfires to flash floods - have mobilised investors and private players to give back to the community at large. And with more innovative models of philanthropy now being introduced such as Development Impact Bonds, Total Social Impact and Impact Giving, this boardroom looks at ways businesses can better engage with society as an important stakeholder.

The Indian Government has introduced a Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme in 10 key sectors to bolster India’s manufacturing capacities and put it on the path to becoming a global manufacturing hub. India is also now part of ongoing discussions with Japan, Australia and a growing number of other countries on building alternate supply lines globally. This Boardroom will bring together senior leadership from various manufacturing sectors along with leaders from finance, law and other supporting services to discuss the fundamental questions of ‘what, where, how, and who’ in India, and provide feedback on regulatory or other constraints to doing business in India.

Culture Economy and Creative Industries, both, have a vital social and economic role giving impetus to creativity, innovation and commercial activity. Cross cultural activities are key to internationalisation of the cultural economy. Countries like India need to recognise the economic impact of culture and creative arts. While private enterprises, impresarios and event managers, cultural organisations are leading the way, governments can set the agenda and provide platform for greater interaction. Project Saath-Saath initiated lately by the Prime Ministers of India and UK can be such a project.

The Covid-19 pandemic has exposed the cracks in healthcare systems around the world. Whilst some have emerged better than others, the pandemic has brought to the fore the urgent need to speed up the delivery of remote and digital healthcare solutions as the only viable way of catering to the needs of the world’s growing population. With just over 1.5 doctors for every 1000 people on earth (with most skewed towards developed countries) and rapidly advancing AI technologies, current systems are unsustainable. This Boardroom will bring together leading private sector and government figures to address the challenges of creating healthcare systems and collaborative opportunities fit for the future.

As India doubles down on its commitment to achieving self-reliance in the Defence & Aerospace sectors, there is an increased sense of immediacy for stakeholders to develop a roadmap for strong and lasting partnerships. The UK’s technical leadership within the defence, marine and aerospace sector and the willingness of the country’s private sector to support India’s commitment presents an untapped opportunity for both countries. This Boardroom is a platform for senior leaders from the defence & Aerospace industry in the UK and India to engage and work on outcome-driven strategies for co-creation in the sector and their businesses.