British Prime Minister David Cameron is not only leading his country's biggest ever trade mission to India, including Rolls-Royce and BP, he is also showing how to mix business and politics by announcing faster business visas, lifting of limits on Indian students and promoting cultural links.

In the federation that is Australia, our biggest missions are now led by state premiers and while the numbers are great, the political level lacks real clout. Cameron's mission is diverse - businesses large and small, soccer's Premier League, universities and the British Museum are all there, along with four senior government ministers. It will be noticed, even in busy India.

In recent years, record numbers of Australian business leaders have headed to India with high hopes. The Victorian government, for example, has its second ''super trade mission'' going in March with substantial financial support for attendees. But even though their numbers match the UK team, will they be noticed?

The answer is yes, but not at the same level. One reason is the shifting view in India as Indian companies expand globally, with icons such as Jaguar and Land Rover now in Indian hands. A growth in confidence and the fact that ''the world is knocking on their door'' mean they do not take notice of every new visitor.

Trade mission leaders need to go with something concrete to offer and while our premiers make a good go of this, the best offerings come from Canberra.