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India: Doing business & staying in touch
Doing business in India
Business etiquette in India places strong emphasis on personal relationships, respect and hierarchy. Initial meetings often focus on introductions and informal conversation, as building trust is seen as an important foundation for doing business. Handshakes are common in professional settings, though some people may prefer a traditional namaste greeting. It is polite to address colleagues by their professional title and surname unless invited to do otherwise.
Decision-making can be hierarchical and may take time, particularly in larger organisations. Patience is valued, and meetings do not always follow a strict agenda. While punctuality is appreciated, schedules can be flexible, and delays are not uncommon. Maintaining a calm, respectful manner and avoiding public confrontation or criticism is important for preserving good working relationships.
Business dress is generally conservative, especially in formal or client-facing environments. Men typically wear suits or smart shirts and trousers, while women often choose modest business attire. Exchanging business cards is common, and cards should be received with a brief glance rather than put away immediately. Hospitality plays a role in business culture, and offers of tea or refreshments are usually made and politely accepted.
India has one of the world's largest and most diverse economies, combining traditional sectors with rapidly expanding modern industries. Agriculture continues to employ a significant portion of the population, producing crops such as rice, wheat, sugarcane, tea, and spices, while manufacturing plays a major role in textiles, pharmaceuticals, automobiles and consumer goods. The country's vast domestic market is a key driver of economic activity.
In recent decades, India has emerged as a global hub for services, particularly information technology, software development, business process outsourcing and financial services. Cities such as Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Pune and Gurugram have become important technology and innovation centres, attracting international companies and investment. Tourism also contributes significantly to the economy, supported by India's cultural heritage, natural landscapes and growing transport infrastructure.
India's economy continues to grow despite challenges such as income inequality, infrastructure gaps and regional disparities. Ongoing investment in digital services, renewable energy, transport and manufacturing is shaping future development. For visitors, this economic mix is visible in the contrast between ultra-modern business districts and traditional markets, reflecting a country that is evolving quickly while remaining deeply rooted in its past.
Petroleum products, diamonds, pharmaceuticals, machinery, chemicals, textiles and garments, agricultural products (including rice, tea and spices), and information technology services.
Keeping in Touch in India
Mobile phone coverage in India is extensive and generally reliable, with good reception in cities, towns and along major transport routes. The country has several major mobile network operators, and prepaid SIM cards are widely available at international airports, mobile phone shops and authorised retailers. A passport and visa are required for SIM registration, and activation can take several hours to a day. Data packages are affordable, and mobile internet speeds are good in urban areas, though coverage and performance can drop in remote regions, hill areas and some national parks.
Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels, guesthouses, cafés and restaurants, particularly in cities and tourist centres. Higher-end hotels usually offer reliable connections, while budget accommodation may have slower or less consistent service. Public Wi-Fi is available at some airports, railway stations and shopping malls, though registration is often required via a mobile number. Many travellers rely on mobile data as a more dependable option when moving around the country.
India has a large and diverse media landscape, with television, radio, newspapers and online platforms operating in dozens of languages. English-language media is widely available and easy for visitors to access, alongside Hindi and regional-language outlets. International news channels are commonly available in hotels and via satellite television. While press freedom exists, media coverage can be politically charged, and visitors are advised to be cautious when discussing sensitive political or religious topics in public or on social media.
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