World Hindu Economic Forum (WHEF) got a boost from the Employment Minister Priti Patel. She stressed that such platforms help strengthen economic relations and trade links between Indian and the UK.

Ms Patel who is Prime Minister David Cameron’s Indian Diaspora Champion made the comments recently when addressing WHEF in London.

Reported in the Economic Times, she said: "It is a clear symbol of how Britain's Hindu community are vibrant and engaged, contributing to British culture, society and of course, our economy for hundreds of years.

"With India's ever-growing influence on the global stage, events like this forum do so much to strengthen our economic relations and trade links between our countries and our businesses," she said.

"This forum is evidence of the immense contribution Hindus make to this country - from your children's success in schools, achievement in all professions and enterprising values," Patel noted.

"As minister for employment, I see every day how vital it is that the UK, India and other global leaders work together and share expertise to help boost skills and job opportunities for the next generation.

"These people-to-people links will help to create a bright and prosperous future for India and the UK," she added.

The organising committee of the forum is chaired by London-based entrepreneur Anil Puri, chairman of the Purico Group of companies.

"We want to encourage Hindus to generate wealth for society's well being. Our Vedas refer to 'Sat Hasta Samahara, Sahastra Hasta Sankira'. It literally means 'generate wealth with 100 hands and share it with 1000 hands'. We believe and practice Vasudhaiv Kutumbakam i.e. the whole world is one family," an official forum release said.