Keir Starmer engaged in discussions with the architects of India’s digital identification system while striving to justify the government’s contentious proposals. The Prime Minister, currently in Mumbai for talks with Indian PM Narendra Modi, praised the system’s remarkable success, which began in 2009 when the Indian government initiated the registration of its billion-plus population into the Aadhaar system, assigning each individual a 12-digit personal identification number.

During his visit, Mr. Starmer met with Nandan Nilekani, a co-founder of Infosys, a prominent Indian tech company that contributed to the development of the ID system. Although the Indian scheme has been lauded for its achievements, there have been past instances of vulnerable individuals facing difficulties, including challenges accessing essential food supplies due to system malfunctions.

Meanwhile, the UK government is gearing up to introduce its own digital ID system by 2029, designed to verify individuals’ rights to reside and work in the country. Despite the PM’s recent announcement of these plans, public support has waned. In response to queries about this decline in support, Mr. Starmer emphasized the necessity of mandatory ID to combat illegal employment concerns while also acknowledging the potential advantages of voluntary identification.

Mr. Starmer’s arrival in Mumbai was met with a warm reception from the Indian government, with billboards featuring his image alongside that of PM Modi lining the city streets. During his visit, Mr. Starmer interacted with children participating in a football program supported by the Premier League. However, he refrained from stating whether he would urge Mr. Modi to cease purchasing Russian oil, emphasizing the UK’s unwavering support for Ukraine and its active involvement in international efforts to secure a lasting ceasefire.

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