India's trade deal with Britain is a sign of New Delhi's new gradual shift to opening up its markets while shielding crucial sectors from competition and could be its template for future agreements, government officials and analysts said on Friday.

UK to offer duty-free access to 99% of Indian items, according to Indian commerce ministry, covering nearly 100% of trade value.

Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said steady diplomacy had helped to rebuild ties: "There will always be events that will impact or try to intrude on the relationship. But I think this is testim...