A day in the shoes of a diplomat

Nineteen-year-old Nidhi Gautam from Karnataka shares what it was like to spend an entire day as the British High Commissioner to India. The British High Commission has organised the ‘High Commissioner for a Day’ competition every year since 2017, to celebrate the International Day of the Girl Child (11 October). 

Being the British High Commissioner to India for a day was surreal. As someone who dreams of becoming a diplomat, stepping into the role of one of the UK's top diplomats and leading their largest overseas mission, was a moment that I will cherish forever. I walked into the day feeling a mix of nerves and excitement, but the warmth and encouragement from the British High Commission team quickly put me at ease. Their support was a constant reminder that I wasn’t just observing - I was part of something bigger!

The day began with a formal introduction to the High Commissioner Lindy Cameron and senior leadership team, followed by breakfast. These conversations weren’t just about diplomacy, but about journeys, ambitions, and the collaborative spirit between the UK and India. A highlight of the morning was learning about the technology, security, and health collaborations between our two countries, setting the tone for what was to come.

My visit to the National Centre for Assistive Health Technologies at the Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi was nothing short of inspiring. I was in awe of the assistive technologies being developed, like the smart cane and refreshable braille devices for the visually impaired. What truly struck me was how these innovations weren’t just about technology but about giving people independence and dignity. This social impact moved me deeply, reminding me how diplomacy, technology, and human kindness can come together to change lives.

Back at the High Commissioner’s residence, a meeting with Dr Ajay Mathur, Director-General of the International Solar Alliance opened my eyes to the importance of renewable energy and climate financing. His insights into the collaboration between India and the UK made me think about the future we can build together - a future where sustainability leads the way.

Lunch was another standout, where I had the opportunity to meet senior leaders from the Government of India and the health tech industry. We had lively discussions about AI in diagnostics, balancing patient data privacy, and equitable access to technology. It was incredible to see their passion for the future of healthcare and how India and the UK are working together to drive these advancements.

 A visit to the BRIC-National Institute of Immunology followed, where I interacted with researchers developing cutting-edge solutions like vaccines for tuberculosis and new therapies for neurodegenerative diseases. The sheer scope of their work was breathtaking, and it emphasised how collaboration between India and the UK is not just about politics, but about advancing human health and solving the world’s biggest challenges.

As the day wrapped up with media interviews and insightful conversations, I was struck by how, in every interaction, the common theme was passion - whether for health tech, climate solutions, or diplomacy. Each person I met inspired me with their dedication, and this experience reaffirmed my own aspiration to join the world of diplomacy.

In all of this, Lindy [my Deputy High Commissioner for the Day 😊] was an invaluable guiding force throughout. Our conversations, from her favourite cuisine and destinations to complex geopolitical issues, provided valuable insights into diplomatic life. I admired how she effortlessly balanced her responsibilities while engaging fully in each moment, inspiring me with her dedication and passion. In just one day, I glimpsed what it means to lead, inspire, and collaborate. It was a day that will stay with me forever, reminding me of the power of partnerships, technology, and the human drive to make a difference. 

The theme of this year’s High Commissioner for a Day competition was built on the landmark UK-India Technology Security Initiative (TSI) launched by UK Foreign Secretary, David Lammy during his visit to India. Learn more about TSI here.