Jeevun Sandher always aspired to have a career in politics, but he realised he needed to understand how to create meaningful change. This led him to become an economist, with the goal of improving lives in the UK. He became the first economist at Somaliland’s Ministry of Finance, helping to combat extreme poverty. Later, at HM Treasury, he analysed policies' impacts and led briefings on inequality. He also worked for the Department of Work and Pensions, he successfully ran for Member of Parliament for Loughborough.
In an interview with Asian Voice, Jeevun discusses about initial thoughts on becoming MP for the first time, APPG India and more.
Being elected as MP for the first time. Can you share your initial thoughts and emotions as you take on this significant role?
I find it incredibly exciting and consider it the greatest honour, privilege, and responsibility of my lifetime. It offers us the chance to transform this country for the better, creating a nation where everyone can thrive. We must address our current domestic crises, tackle climate change, and ensure a sustainable future for generations to come. While the country faces significant challenges today, our focus should be on what we can achieve, and I am confident that we will rise to the occasion.
You are also involved with the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) India. Could you share your vision for the future of UK-India relations?
The APPG has been established for some time, but the UK and India have close ties due to our shared history and vibrant diaspora. Our goal is to strengthen this relationship further in the coming years. We aim to enhance collaboration between the UK and India, focusing on mutual benefits and parliamentary support. This includes discussing the UK-India trade deal, facilitating business interactions through parliamentarians, celebrating cultural ties, and aligning our democratic values and security strategies. Our objective is to ensure that both nations work together effectively and advance our shared interests, which is the core mission of the APPG.
What role do you see the APPG India playing in strengthening the ties between the UK and India?
The APPG serves as a dedicated channel to address key issues and foster collaboration between the UK and India. As parliamentarians, our role is to facilitate dialogue between business leaders and policymakers, providing a platform for UK businesses to engage with politicians and establish connections with India. We also aim to gather and relay feedback to improve policies that benefit both nations.
Regarding cultural ties, our focus is on promoting cultural exchange and celebrating events that highlight our shared heritage. The close historical links between our cultures have enriched both nations, and we are committed to continuing this exchange and ensuring that it thrives.
With India’s growing economic power and global influence, how do you envision the UK-India partnership evolving in the next decade?
I envision an even closer partnership between our nations, benefiting both the UK and India. Our Foreign Secretaries and key figures like Johnny Reynolds have actively engaged with India, highlighting the importance of this relationship. The UK-India Summit last year underscored our commitment, and it remains a priority for us.
India's growth as a regional and global power will benefit its citizens, the region, and the world. India’s progress in eliminating extreme poverty is a remarkable achievement, transforming the lives of millions and positively impacting global well-being. When my father was born in India, poverty was widespread, but significant strides have been made since then.
Culturally, our nation's influence each other in profound ways. In the UK, Indian culture is celebrated through popular cuisine and entertainment, while Indian cinema often reflects British cultural elements. This exchange enriches both cultures and strengthens our bond.
In terms of strategy and security, we face a more perilous world today, arguably the most dangerous since World War II. Trade and democratic values have played crucial roles in preventing conflict and destruction. By fostering more trade and collaboration, we can ensure mutual prosperity and stability. India, as the world’s largest democracy, has overcome immense challenges since its independence in 1947 and continues to thrive. I am excited to see how our partnership will evolve and grow in the coming years.
British Indians have made significant contributions across various sectors in the UK. How do you see their role in shaping the future of the country?
I believe our partnership will continue to strengthen. With over 20 Indian Labour MPs, the Indian diaspora in the UK has shown significant growth and influence. Initially, when my parents arrived, the focus was on establishing themselves and encouraging their children to pursue traditional professional careers like medicine and law. However, in recent years, there has been a noticeable shift. The Indian diaspora has increasingly engaged in politics and journalism, influencing both national policies and their own communities' prosperity. This evolving involvement is a positive development, and we are seeing significant progress in political representation, especially within the Labour Party. This trend is expected to continue and expand.
As someone born in the UK with Indian heritage, how do you view India's current development and its role on the global stage?
It has been incredibly heartwarming to witness India's progress over my lifetime. I take immense pride in being British and in my Indian heritage. I am just a generation removed from rural poverty in India, and I understand the challenges that came with it. When I was younger, I used to visit India every year before my grandmother passed away, and it's difficult to convey how different it was back then compared to now. The transformation is remarkable, from improvements in infrastructure to the way people are thriving.
India’s progress is evident and impressive, and I am genuinely pleased to see how far it has come. Looking ahead, I am confident that India will continue to grow and prosper, achieving even greater success in the years to come.
What message would you like to convey to the British Indian community as they navigate the current economic and social challenges in the UK?
My message to British Indians, and to everyone in the UK, is this: Our country faces its most severe crisis since the Second World War. We are dealing with the longest economic crisis since Napoleon, the slowest recovery from Covid, the highest inflation in the G7, and record-long waiting times. Our infrastructure is visibly deteriorating.
This government recognises the enormity of these challenges and is committed to addressing them, though it will take time. Unlike previous administrations that might have exploited divisions, our focus is on uniting and transforming this country.
The fact that my election is seen as ordinary reflects a remarkable aspect of the UK: our diverse backgrounds contribute to a vibrant economy and culture. British Indians, along with many other communities, have played a crucial role in this. Let’s continue working together to improve our nation, striving for progress even if perfection remains a goal.
