Mr Meenu Malhotra DL, the Chairman of Malhotra Group PLC, a leading company in the Northeast, has been bestowed with the prestigious title of Honorary Consul of India. This historic appointment, the first of its kind in the 75-year history of independent India, marks a significant milestone and underscores the profound importance of Mr Malhotra’s role.

His Excellency, Mr Vikram K Doriaswami, the High Commissioner of India to the UK, announced on Friday, 30th August, in front of civic dignitaries, leading entrepreneurs, sports personalities, senior leaders from NHS Hospital Foundations, universities, and other notable representatives from across the local community and the Indian Diaspora. 

This appointment is not just a recognition of Mr Malhotra’s achievements, but also a strategic move to enhance mutual trading opportunities with one of the fastest-growing economies in the world, India. It is a significant step towards fostering stronger cultural and political ties between the two countries. 

Mr Malhotra’s responsibilities as the Honorary Consul of India extend beyond trade. He will work to develop strong links across various industries, from pharmaceuticals to green energy, and promote cultural, political, and tourism initiatives between India and the UK.

 Mr Malhotra’s commitment to supporting international students is unwavering. He has provided more than two decades of informal support. Now, with his formal position, he will be in an even stronger position to continue to assist and guide, demonstrating his dedication to this cause.

As part of his new role, Mr Malhotra will also help businesses in the Northeast work in India. The new dedicated offices for the Consulate of India are now established in the former Parrish’s department store on Shields Road, Newcastle-upon-Tyne. The building has been renamed ‘India House’ and was officially opened by His Excellency, the High Commissioner of India, on 30 August 2024.

Over the last 45 years, Mr Malhotra has supported the Indian community and the Indian Diaspora in Northeast England and his native India, where he has continued to pursue business interests.

Mr Malhotra expressed his gratitude to both the Honourable President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu and the Indian Government for bestowing this honour upon him. As well as sharing his gratitude with His Excellency, Mr Vikram K Doriaswami, the High Commissioner of India to the UK, for officially opening “India House” in Newcastle and announcing his appointment. 

Mr Malhotra will act as a bridge between India and England, having worked closely with the Consul General Offices in Birmingham for over a decade. Malhotra also thanked Dr Venkatachalam Murugan for his support and guidance. 

This appointment will strengthen the relationship between England and India, benefiting the communities of the North East of England. 

Mr Malhotra will work to ensure that the people of England, especially those in the
North East will know that India is open for business and that he will be part of the journey to support the Indian Government’s stated policy and initiative to grow the economy to seven trillion US dollars by 2030. 

Mr Malhotra said:  “It is a great honour to be able to represent both countries.”