Congress MP Shashi Tharoor recalled with pride how a word he coined 20 years ago on geopolitical alignments has become truer today.

PHOTO | The state banquet hosted by President Droupadi Murmu for Russian President Vladimir Putin at Rashtrapati Bhavan featured a meticulously curated menu. pic.twitter.com/hyj3Ud7Gu3

— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) December 5, 2025

VIDEO | President Droupadi Murmu said, "I am very happy to welcome Russian President Vladimir Putin and his delegation to Rashtrapati Bhavan... Today's occasion holds great significance for us, as we are celebrating 25 years of the India–Russia Strategic Partnership, a… pic.twitter.com/woOotxc6NS

— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) December 5, 2025

#WATCH | Delhi | Prime Minister Narendra Modi leaves from the Rashtrapati Bhavan after attending the banquet hosted in honour of Russian President Vladimir Putin by President Droupadi Murmu. pic.twitter.com/LnpPor3XNM

— ANI (@ANI) December 5, 2025

#WATCH | Delhi | Russian President Vladimir Putin leaves from the Rashtrapati Bhavan after attending the banquet hosted in his honour by President Droupadi Murmu. pic.twitter.com/H2hFb3l71z

— ANI (@ANI) December 5, 2025

India and Russia on Friday used their 23rd Annual Summit to put a sharper economic, defence and technological edge on what both sides described as a "time-tested progressive partnership".

❗️Putin: Indian Phrase ‘Go Together, Grow Together’ Truly Reflects the Nature and Character of 🇷🇺-🇮🇳 Relations pic.twitter.com/OOdN1IinC4

— RT_India (@RT_India_news) December 5, 2025

#WATCH | Delhi: Russian President Vladimir Putin was accorded a ceremonial welcome upon his arrival at Rashtrapati Bhavan to attend the banquet hosted in his honour by President Droupadi Murmu
(Source: Kremlin) pic.twitter.com/BDVbRs8RMw

— ANI (@ANI) December 5, 2025

❗️PM Modi & President Putin Sit Side By Side At State Banquet As President Murmu Delivers Her Speech https://t.co/tlhmhNH5nJ pic.twitter.com/iwEmaZOKpf

— RT_India (@RT_India_news) December 5, 2025

Gifts given by PM Narendra Modi to Russian President Vladimir Putin | 5) Kashmiri Saffron, locally known as Kong or Zaffran, cultivated in the highlands of Kashmir, is prized for its rich colour, aroma, and flavour, and holds deep cultural and culinary significance. Protected by… pic.twitter.com/RFJGybDDNu

— ANI (@ANI) December 5, 2025

Gifts given by PM Narendra Modi to Russian President Vladimir Putin | 3) Silver Horse- the handcrafted silver horse from Maharashtra, adorned with intricate detailing, showcases the finesse of India’s metal craft traditions. Symbolising dignity and valour celebrated in both… pic.twitter.com/6MVUbUqBWg

— ANI (@ANI) December 5, 2025

Gifts given by PM Narendra Modi to Russian President Vladimir Putin | 1) Fine Assam Black Tea, grown in the fertile Brahmaputra plains, is prized for its robust malty flavour, bright liquor, and traditional processing using the assamica variety. Recognised with a GI tag in 2007,… pic.twitter.com/ZhM9btQRRF

— ANI (@ANI) December 5, 2025

❗️ 🇮🇳🇷🇺 President Murmu Hosts State Dinner in Honour of President Putin at Rashtrapati Bhavan https://t.co/8AGanf8ZJj pic.twitter.com/EzhaIca6C0

— RT_India (@RT_India_news) December 5, 2025

#WATCH | Delhi: President Droupadi Murmu receives Russian President Vladimir Putin as he arrives at Rashtrapati Bhavan to attend the banquet hosted in his honour
(Source: Kremlin) pic.twitter.com/tIvafaMzrf

— ANI (@ANI) December 5, 2025

Russian President Vladimir Putin said Friday he was ready to continue "uninterrupted shipments" of fuel to India, as New Delhi faces heavy US pressure to stop buying oil from Moscow.

US President Donald Trump imposed punishing 50 per cent tariffs on most Indian products in August, citing New Delhi's continued purchases of Russian oil -- revenue Washington argues helps fund the war in Ukraine.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is hosting Putin at a summit in New Delhi dominated by energy, defence and trade talks, thanked the Russian leader for his "unwavering commitment towards India".

(AFP)

India and Russia have confirmed their readiness to intensify trade and investment cooperation in the Far East and the Arctic zone of the Russian Federation, according to a joint statement issued on Friday after the meeting here between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Vladimir Putin.

The Programme of India-Russia Cooperation in Trade, Economic and Investment Spheres in the Russian Far East for the period from 2024 to 2029 provides the necessary framework for further cooperation between India and the Russian Far East region, especially in the sectors of agriculture, energy, mining, manpower, diamonds, pharmaceuticals and maritime transport.

Both sides underscored the importance of holding regular bilateral consultations on Arctic-related issues and welcomed the progress made in multi-faceted bilateral cooperation on the Northern Sea Route.

(IANS)

Glimpses from the ceremonial welcome for President Putin at Rashtrapati Bhavan. President Putin has been unwavering in his commitment to strong India-Russia ties and has contributed immensely to taking this relationship to new heights. Though the world has seen many changes over… pic.twitter.com/iQQNzq168n

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 5, 2025

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday said early signing of the preferential trade agreement between India and the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) will reduce barriers to facilitate the movement of goods, services and capital. India and the Eurasian Economic Union held the first round of negotiations for the free trade pact last week.

India and the five-nation grouping, the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU), on August 20, inked the terms of reference for the agreement.

Russia, Armenia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan are the five member countries of the EAEU.

(PTI)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin held an extensive range of talks aimed at strengthening the Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership between India and Russia.

Official Spokesperson for the Ministry of External Affairs, Randhir Jaiswal, said that the leaders witnessed the exchange of several documents.

Earlier in the day, PM Modi welcomed Putin at Hyderabad House to participate in the 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit.

(ANI)

VIDEO | “Don’t know on what basis invitations are issued, but I will certainly attend. It is not appropriate that Leaders of Opposition are not invited,” says Congress MP Shashi Tharoor on being invited to the banquet in honour of Russian President Vladimir Putin.
(Full VIDEO… pic.twitter.com/lcMRZj7cpm

— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) December 5, 2025

PM Modi noted that India is a global leader in affordable, efficient electric vehicles, two-wheelers, and CNG mobility solutions, while Russia is a major producer of advanced materials.

By partnering in EV manufacturing, automotive components, and shared mobility technologies, the two countries can not only meet their domestic demands but also contribute to the development of the Global South, Modi said.

President Putin said Russia is for strengthening its multifaceted relations with India in various fields.

(PTI)

Amid the Western pressure on New Delhi to reduce trade with Moscow, Russian President Vladimir Putin's two-day visit to India sent a "clear message" to the world that "neither country is isolated", according to a Chinese media report.

Noting that India is emerging as the world's skilled capital and the country's young talent has the potential to meet global requirements, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said that India and Russia are embarking together on a new journey of innovation, co-production and co-creation.

Addressing the India-Russia Business Forum, PM Modi said the goal of the two countries is not limited to increasing mutual trade, but they want to ensure the well-being of all humanity and need to develop sustainable solutions to global challenges.

He urged Russian businesses to "Come, Make in India, Partner with India".

(ANI)

As Russian President Vladimir Putin is in India, Congress MP Shashi Tharoor praised the importance of the relationship with Moscow, stating that from oil and gas to defence equipment, which played a seminal role in Operation Sindoor, Russia has stood by India, and that the ties between the two countries remain independent of India's relations with the US and China.

Highlighting India's approach to foreign policy, Tharoor said New Delhi maintains strategic autonomy and independent bilateral ties. "No one should misunderstand that this will affect our relationships with other countries, because India has the capacity to have independent relationships with different governments. We are a nation that has always believed in sovereign autonomy. Our autonomy to decide our friendships, our partnerships and our national interests is encoded in our DNA," he added.

(ANI)

Shashi Tharoor invited to Presidential banquet for Putin, Congress sources say no invite to M Kharge or Rahul Gandhi

Shashi Tharoor invited to Presidential banquet for Putin; Congress sources say no invite to M Kharge or Rahul Gandhi

India is pursuing an independent and sovereign policy under the leadership of PM Modi and achieving very good results, Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Friday, noting that the Indian economy is one of the fastest-growing in the world.

Addressing the India-Russia Business Forum in New Delhi, President Putin said that due to initiatives by PM Modi such as the Make in India programme, India is becoming technologically sovereign.

He said that the Russian delegation did not only come to discuss energy issues and sign contracts for the supplies of oil and gas.

"What we want is the development of our multifaceted relations with India in various fields. Prime Minister stressed on many occasions in our private talks that India has vast and growing opportunities in many fields, but up until now they haven't been used to the extent both parties want to see it. That is precisely the reason why we convened this forum," he said.

(ANI)

Russian President Vladimir Putin's official visit to India has had a huge impact not only on defence, but on trade ties as well between the two longtime friends.

Russia and India have been long-standing investment and political partners for many years, and now, this relationship is entering a new phase, a technological era, Gleb Borukhov, Managing Director, Realia Capital Group, said on Friday.

Borukhov said that previously, trade between the two countries was primarily based on commodity trading.

(IANS)

India and Russia have agreed on an economic cooperation programme aimed at expanding trade till 2030, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Friday at a press conference along with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

The greatest strength of India-Russia relations is trust: PM Modi at India-Russia Business Forum.

(PTI)

India-Russia can achieve USD 100 bn bilateral trade target ahead of 2030, says Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

(PTI)

Russia has reaffirmed its long-standing energy partnership with India, with President Vladimir Putin declaring that Moscow will remain a steady, uninterrupted supplier for the country's fast-growing economy.

While addressing the joint press address with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, he said the two countries are seeing "successful partnership in energy," adding that "Russia is a reliable supply of oil, gas, coal and everything that is required for the development of India's energy. We are ready to continue uninterrupted shipments of fuel for the fast-growing Indian economy."

Putin noted that cooperation is expanding well beyond conventional fuel. He highlighted the major joint nuclear power initiative already underway, saying Russia is conducting "a flagship project to build the largest nuclear power plant in India."

(ANI)

Russia is collaborating with India at Kudankulam, the largest nuclear plant in India, Russian President Vladimir Putin said during a joint press briefing alongside Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi today.

India and Russia 'walk together in the fight against terrorism', Prime Minister Narendra Modi said Friday afternoon in a joint statement with Russia's Vladimir Putin.

The initiative of the three European envoys to write an article in an Indian daily maligning Putin and Russia just before the Russian president's visit served no real purpose. It was diplomatically unwarranted.

Emphasising the significance of cultural ties between India and Russia, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said that people-to-people connections have always held a special place in bilateral relations and New Delhi will soon launch a free 30-day e-tourist visa and a 30-day group tourist visa for Russian citizens.

In a joint press statement with Russian President Vladimir Putin following their talks at the Hyderabad House in New Delhi on Friday, PM Modi stated that for decades, the people of both countries have shared deep affection, respect and warmth for one another and that several new steps have been taken to deepen these bonds.

"Recently, two new Indian consulates have been opened in Russia. This will facilitate smoother contact between the citizens of both countries and enhance mutual closeness. Earlier this October, hundreds of thousands of devotees in 'Kalmykia' received the blessings of the sacred relics of Lord Buddha at the International Buddhist Forum," PM Modi stated.

(IANS)

Russian President Vladimir Putin held talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday at an annual summit and agreed to diversify mutual economic ties, as the United States presses India to revise its decades-old partnership with Russia.

The 23rd Russia-India Summit comes at a pivotal moment as the U.S. pushes for a Ukraine peace deal while seeking global cooperation. It will test New Delhi's efforts to balance relations with Moscow and Washington as the nearly four-year war in Ukraine grinds on.

Putin was received by PM Modi at an airport in New Delhi on Thursday. He gave Putin a bear hug and a tight handshake with the gusto of an old friend.

(AP)

Russian President Vladimir Putin said Friday he was ready to continue "uninterrupted shipments" of fuel to India, as New Delhi faces heavy US pressure to stop buying oil from Moscow.

US President Donald Trump imposed punishing 50 percent tariffs on most Indian products in August, citing New Delhi's continued purchases of Russian oil -- revenue Washington argues helps fund the war in Ukraine.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is hosting Putin at a summit in New Delhi dominated by energy, defence and trade talks, thanked the Russian leader for his "unwavering commitment towards India".

(AFP)

Hailing India-Russia ties, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said that the friendship between the two countries has remained like a pole star amidst the ups and downs faced by the world in the past 80 years.

While making a joint press statement with Russian President Vladimir Putin following their talks at the Hyderabad House in New Delhi on Friday, PM Modi said that the ties between the two nations have stood the test of time and thanked Putin for his friendship and unwavering commitment to India while recalling the efforts made by the Russian leadership to elevate bilateral ties.

(IANS)

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday assured India of uninterrupted fuel supplies as part of a broader push to strengthen bilateral ties between the two nations.

At a joint press meet with Prime Minister Narendra Modi here, Putin said, "We are ready to continue uninterrupted shipments of fuel for the growing Indian economy."

The announcement came as both countries signed multiple agreements, covering sectors from fertilisers and food safety to shipping and maritime logistics, and Prime Minister Modi highlighted economic cooperation between the two nations, saying, "India and Russia have agreed on an economic cooperation programme to expand trade till 2030."

(IANS)

 India and Russia have agreed on an economic cooperation programme aimed at expanding trade till 2030, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Friday at a press conference along with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

"We are trying for an early conclusion of the FTA with the Eurasian Economic Union. India and Russia have agreed on an economic cooperation programme to expand trade till 2030," PM Modi said after talks with President Putin.

Both countries are working towards ambitious targets set by their leaders of achieving $50 billion in mutual investments by 2025 and $100 billion in annual bilateral trade by 2030.

(IANS)

 Delhi: Russian President Vladimir Putin said, "Our country, for the last half a century, has been helping to arm and modernise the Indian Army, including the Air Defence Forces, aviation, and the Navy. In general, we are undoubtedly satisfied with the results of the negotiation we just had...I can express my confidence that the current visit and the agreements reached will help further deepen the Russian-Indian strategic partnership for the benefit of our countries and the people, the peoples of India and Russia."

Delhi: At a joint press meet with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Russian President Vladimir Putin said, “We are conducting a flagship project to build India’s largest nuclear power plant at Kudankulam. Two of the six reactor units are already connected to the grid, while four more are under construction. Bringing this plant to full capacity will make an impressive contribution to India’s energy needs, providing cheap and clean power for industries and households. We can also discuss small modular reactors, floating nuclear plants, and non-energy uses of nuclear technology, including in medicine and agriculture. We are working with our Indian partners to build new international transport and logistics routes, including the International North–South Transport Corridor from Russia and Belarus to the Indian Ocean. There are major opportunities for bilateral trade with the expansion of this corridor, including its key link -the Northern Sea Route.”

At a joint press meet with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Russian President Vladimir Putin said, “The Prime Minister gave us a list of challenges that deserve the attention of both governments, and we will act on them. The creation of a Free Trade Agreement between India and the Eurasian Economic Union will help. Our countries are gradually moving to mutual settlements in national currencies, which already account for 96 per cent of commercial transactions. We are also witnessing successful partnerships in energy - stable supplies of oil, gas, coal, and everything required for India’s energy needs.”

Delhi: PM Narendra Modi said, "...This year in October, millions of devotees received the blessings of Lord Buddha's sacred relics at the International Buddhist Forum in Kalmykia. I'm pleased that we will soon be launching a free 30-day e-tourist visa and a 30-day Group Tourist Visa for Russian citizens..."

Russian President Vladimir Putin says, "I thank President of India, Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister of India and all our Indian colleagues for the warm and hospitable welcome accorded to the Russian delegation...I thank PM Modi for the dinner at his residence yesterday."

PM Narendra Modi said, "India and Russia have long been standing shoulder to shoulder in the fight against terrorism. Whether it is the terrorist attack in Pahalgam or the cowardly attack on the Crocus City Hall, the root of all these incidents is the same.  India's unwavering belief is that terrorism is a direct assault on the values of humanity and that global unity against it is our greatest strength. India and Russia have close cooperation in the UN, G20, BRICS, SCO, and other forums. We will continue our dialogue and cooperation in all these forums..."

Following the 23rd India-Russia annual summit, PM Modi said, "India and Russia are working towards the early conclusion of a free trade agreement with the Eurasian Economic Union."

Delhi: PM Narendra Modi says, "India has advocated for peace on the Ukraine issue from the very beginning. We welcome all efforts being made for a peaceful and lasting resolution of this matter. India has always been ready to contribute its part and will remain so in the future."

At a joint press meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, “To further economic cooperation, we have signed a Vision 2030 document. Today, both of us will take part in the India–Russia Business Forum. I am confident this platform will strengthen our business relations and open new avenues for co-production and co-innovation. Both countries are also taking new steps to realise an FTA with the Eurasian Economic Union.”

"Energy security has been a strong and important pillar of the India-Russia partnership. Our decades-old cooperation in civil nuclear energy has been crucial in realising our shared clean energy priorities. We will continue this win-win cooperation. Our cooperation in critical minerals is crucial to ensuring secure and diversified supply chains across the world. This will provide strong support to our partnership in clean energy, high-tech manufacturing, and new-age industries," Prime Minister Narendra Modi Said

"Our deep cooperation in shipbuilding has the potential to strengthen Make in India. This is another excellent example of our win-win cooperation, which will boost jobs, skills, and regional connectivity."

India-Russia friendship has remained steadfast like a pole star over past eight decades, said PM Modi.

"President Putin's visit to India comes at a time our bilateral relations are passing through several historic milestones," he added.

Prime Minister Modi thanked his "friend", Russian President Putin, for strong Russia-India ties.

PM Narendra Modi said, "...Fifteen years ago, in 2010, our partnership was granted the status of a Special Privileged Strategic Partnership. For the past two and a half decades, he (President Putin) has nurtured this relationship with his leadership and vision. His leadership, under all circumstances, has elevated our ties to new heights. I express my heartfelt gratitude to President Putin, my friend, for this deep friendship and unwavering commitment to India."

In the last eight decades, the world saw ups and downs, humanity witnessed challenges, but India-Russia ties remain steadfast, said PM Modi.

India and Russia ink agreements on migration and mobility, cooperation in health and food safety sectors.

PM Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin witness exchange of agreements between India and Russia.

#WATCH | Delhi | PM Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin witness exchange of agreements between India and Russia
(Video source: DD) pic.twitter.com/GVsXPH7me1

— ANI (@ANI) December 5, 2025

In his meeting with PM Narendra Modi, Russian President Vladimir Putin says, "First of all, thank you very much for inviting me...I could share a great deal of details about the events taking place in Ukraine. We are taking together with some partners, including the US, on a possible peaceful statement. Thank you for the attention in finding solutions for this situation. Our ways are deeply rooted in history, but it is not the words that matter; it is the substance of the matter, which is very profound. We really appreciate that and the fact that you, as PM, take special personal attention to that."

Amid the Western pressure on New Delhi to reduce trade with Moscow, Russian President Vladimir Putin's two-day visit to India sent a "clear message" to the world that "neither country is isolated", according to a Chinese media report.

“One of the founders of the modern Indian state, the great philosopher and humanist Mahatma Gandhi, made an invaluable contribution to the cause of peace on the entire planet. His ideas of freedom, virtue, and non-violence remain relevant to this day. Mahatma Gandhi, in essence, foresaw the emergence of a new, more just multipolar world order, which is now in the process of taking shape. In his correspondence with Lev Nikolaevich Tolstoy, he wrote about the future of the world — free from diktat and hegemony, built on the principles of equality, mutual respect, and cooperation among nations. And it is precisely these principles that today closely bind the values of Russia and India on the international stage," wrote Russian President Putin in the visitor's book at the Rajghat.

"Shared Ukraine Peaceful Settlement Details With India": Putin To PM Modi

The United States has called for continued efforts to improve its relations with India, following a bitter run-in over tariffs and trade differences, with a new report highlighting the need for New Delhi's participation in countering the Indo-Pacific

Russian President Putin told PM Modi, "Our relations are deeply rooted in history – but it's not words that matter, it's the substance, which is profound."

Russian President Putin expresses gratitude to PM Modi for India’s focus on Ukraine peace initiatives.

“India is not neutral; it is on the side of peace”: PM Modi mentions Ukraine to Putin and says he hopes for global peace. He also called the Russian President a "visionary leader".

Delhi | PM Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin reach the Hyderabad House for their meeting.

#WATCH | Delhi | PM Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin reach the Hyderabad House for their meeting.
Source: DD pic.twitter.com/cxnSduobTg

— ANI (@ANI) December 5, 2025

PM Modi received President Putin at the Palam Airport as the two leaders travelled together in a Toyota Fortuner to 7 Lok Kalyan Marg.

Delhi | Russian President Vladimir Putin signs the visitors' book at the Rajghat, where he paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi.

#PutinInIndia | Russian President Vladimir Putin signs the visitors' book at the Raj Ghat, where he paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi@ShivAroor pic.twitter.com/cREnmRrN5f

— NDTV (@ndtv) December 5, 2025

Delhi | Russian President Vladimir Putin lays a wreath at the Rajghat and pays tribute to Mahatma Gandhi.

#WATCH | Delhi | Russian President Vladimir Putin lays a wreath at the Rajghat and pays tribute to Mahatma Gandhi.
(Video: DD) pic.twitter.com/BsAyDTlKRr

— ANI (@ANI) December 5, 2025

Russian President Vladimir Putin is in India on a state visit aimed at bolstering bilateral and economic ties between New Delhi and Moscow.

Russian President Vladimir Putin reaches Rajghat to pay tribute to Mahatma Gandhi.

#WATCH | Delhi | Russian President Vladimir Putin reaches Rajghat to pay tribute to Mahatma Gandhi. pic.twitter.com/TxTmBuTwpW

— ANI (@ANI) December 5, 2025

Russian President Vladimir Putin is in India on a state visit aimed at bolstering bilateral and economic ties between New Delhi and Moscow.

Delhi | President Droupadi Murmu and Russian President Vladimir Putin introduce each other to the dignitaries from each other's country, at the Rashtrapati Bhavan.

#WATCH | Delhi | President Droupadi Murmu and Russian President Vladimir Putin introduce each other to the dignitaries from each other's country, at the Rashtrapati Bhavan.
(Video: DD) pic.twitter.com/uroV7LrK7d

— ANI (@ANI) December 5, 2025

Russian President Vladimir Putin receives a Guard of Honour at the Rashtrapati Bhawan.

#WATCH | Russian President Vladimir Putin receives a Guard of Honour at the Rashtrapati Bhawan.
Source: DD pic.twitter.com/ZcHc5EMI6y

— ANI (@ANI) December 5, 2025

Delhi | Russian President Vladimir Putin and President Droupadi Murmu shake hands at the forecourt of Rashtrapati Bhavan. The Russian President and PM Narendra Modi also shake hands.

#WATCH | Delhi | Russian President Vladimir Putin and President Droupadi Murmu shake hands at the forecourt of Rashtrapati Bhavan. The Russian President and PM Narendra Modi also shake hands. pic.twitter.com/Uuv9d3dCuq

— ANI (@ANI) December 5, 2025

PM Narendra Modi welcomes President Droupadi Murmu to the Rashtrapati Bhawan forecourt ahead of the ceremonial welcome that is to be accorded to Russian President Vladimir Putin.

#WATCH | PM Narendra Modi welcomes President Droupadi Murmu to the Rashtrapati Bhawan forecourt ahead of the ceremonial welcome that is to be accorded to Russian President Vladimir Putin. pic.twitter.com/EYAVYcatVR

— ANI (@ANI) December 5, 2025

PM Narendra Modi reaches the Rashtrapati Bhawan for the ceremonial welcome of Russian President Vladimir Putin.

#WATCH | Delhi | PM Narendra Modi arrives at the Rashtrapati Bhawan ahead of the ceremonial welcome that is to be accorded to Russian President Vladimir Putin. EAM Dr S Jaishankar welcomes him. pic.twitter.com/SPjlY4YIyE

— ANI (@ANI) December 5, 2025

Delhi | Preparations underway for Russian President Vladimir Putin's ceremonial reception and Guard of Honour at the Rashtrapati Bhawan. EAM Dr S Jaishankar, Delhi LG VK Saxena, CDS General Anil Chauhan and other dignitaries are present.

#WATCH | Delhi | Preparations underway for Russian President Vladimir Putin's ceremonial reception and Guard of Honour at the Rashtrapati Bhawan. EAM Dr S Jaishankar, Delhi LG VK Saxena, CDS General Anil Chauhan and other dignitaries are present. pic.twitter.com/80zq1YL4Vq

— ANI (@ANI) December 5, 2025

US media outlets cast Russian President Vladimir Putin's arrival in New Delhi as a pivotal moment in India's foreign policy calculus, with coverage centring on the Modi government's attempt to preserve its deep strategic partnership with Moscow.

Delhi | On Russian President Vladimir Putin’s India visit, Congress MP Shashi Tharoor says, "It's hugely significant. It is a crucial relationship, and has been for a long time. In today's rather turbulent world, where so many relationships have become uncertain, it becomes important to shore up the ones we have. No one should misunderstand that this will affect our relationships with other countries, because India has the capacity to have independent relationships with different governments. We are a nation that has always believed in sovereign autonomy. Our autonomy to decide our friendships, our partnerships and our national interests is encoded in our DNA. The value of Russian friendship has been proven in recent years, particularly in two domains. We've had a lot of oil and gas from Russia in recent years, and the value of defence imports from Russia was demonstrated once again during Operation Sindoor when the S-400 protected us from a number of Pakistani missiles that were targeting our cities, including Delhi... If agreements come through during this meeting, that's part of strengthening a vital relationship, which in my mind, does not come at the expense of relations with America or China..."

raffic restrictions and diversions are in place in several parts of the national capital, including central Delhi, on Friday in view of Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit, the Delhi Police said in an advisory and advised commuters to plan their journey accordingly.

Putin is expected to make diplomatic visits to Rajghat, Bharat Mandapam, Hyderabad House and Rashtrapati Bhavan among other places as part of his engagements in the city.

Office-goers and commuters will face traffic diversions on Mother Teresa Crescent, Teen Murti Marg, Akbar Road, Janpath Road, Pragati Maidan tunnel, ITO Chowk, among others.

According to the advisory, traffic curbs will be in place from 9 am to 12 noon along W Point, A Point, ITO Chowk, BSZ Marg, Delhi Gate, JLN Marg, Rajghat Crossing, Shanti Van Crossing, Hanuman Setu Y Point, Netaji Subhash Marg, Nishad Raj Marg, Saleem Garh Flyover Bypass, the MGM Pragati Maidan Tunnel to Hanuman Setu, Kashmere Gate, Vikas Marg and IP Marg.

MGM Pragati Maidan Tunnel towards Hanuman Setu will remain closed during this period and commuters have been asked to use alternative routes, it said.

Delhi: Flex boards welcoming Russian President Vladimir Putin and Russian national flags put up outside ITC Maurya. 

President Putin is on a State visit to India for the 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit. During the visit, he will hold talks with PM Modi. President Droupadi Murmu will also receive President Putin and host a banquet in his honour today.

#WATCH | Delhi: Flex boards welcoming Russian President Vladimir Putin and Russian national flags put up outside ITC Maurya.
President Putin is on a State visit to India for the 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit. During the visit, he will hold talks with PM Modi. President… pic.twitter.com/kuJQCtm2xm

— ANI (@ANI) December 5, 2025

The aircraft carrying Russian President Vladimir Putin was the most tracked flight in the world earlier today, according to Flight Radar 24.

Russian President Vladimir Putin must have ordered the Novichok nerve agent attack on Russian double agent Sergei Skripal in 2018, in a "reckless" display of power that led to the death of an innocent woman, a UK public inquiry concluded on Thursday.

US media outlets cast Russian President Vladimir Putin’s arrival in New Delhi as a pivotal moment in India’s foreign policy calculus, with coverage centring on the Modi government’s attempt to preserve its deep strategic partnership with Moscow while navigating acute pressure from Washington.

The Washington Post described the visit as presenting PM Modi with a “delicate diplomatic challenge,” reporting that he must keep faith with Russia “without riling President Donald Trump,” who has penalised India for buying Russian crude and “fueling its ‘war machine’ in Ukraine.”

The Post reported that India’s refiners have already begun reducing purchases of Russian oil as US and European sanctions tighten, a shift analysts called a “significant blow” to Moscow’s wartime finances.

The New York Times highlighted the symbolism of PM Modi personally receiving Putin on the tarmac, calling it a gesture meant to underscore “the strong personal rapport” between the two leaders despite a fraught geopolitical moment.

The timing of Putin's visit to India is significant, as it marks 25 years of India-Russia strategic partnership, which began during Putin's first year in office as president. Since 2000, both nations have conducted annual summits, with Indian leaders visiting Moscow one year and the Russian president returning to New Delhi the following year.

That tradition was, however, broken in 2022, after Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine. That year, PM Modi was supposed to visit Russia for the summit, but the summit was postponed. The following year, Putin skipped the G20 summit in New Delhi, largely due to an International Criminal Court (ICC) warrant against him related to the Ukraine war. 

Finally, in 2024, the annual summit resumed, with PM Modi visiting Russia, with Putin returning the gesture four years later. Putin is in India at a time when New Delhi is engaged in talks with the US for a trade deal to cut punitive tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump on its goods over India's Russian oil purchases.

Moscow has been India's top arms supplier for decades and has said that it wants to import more Indian goods in an effort to grow trade to $100 billion by 2030, which so far has been skewed in its favour due to New Delhi's energy imports.

Since European countries cut back their reliance on Russian energy after Russia invaded Ukraine nearly four years ago, India has ramped up its purchases of discounted Russian crude.

Russian President Vladimir Putin challenged heavy US pressure on India not to buy Russian fuel if the US could do so as he began a two-day state visit, where he was embraced on arrival by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Russian President Vladimir Putin is in India on a state visit aimed at bolstering bilateral and economic ties between New Delhi and Moscow.

 Massive traffic restrictions will be in place in parts of the national capital on Friday in view of Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit, a Delhi Traffic Police official said. Traffic police announced on Thursday extensive restrictions and diversions in Mother Teresa Crescent, Teen Murti Marg, Akbar Road, Janpath Road, Pragati Maidan tunnel, ITO Chowk, among others.

Putin is expected to make diplomatic visits to Rajghat, Bharat Mandapam, Hyderabad House and Rashtrapati Bhavan among other places as part of his engagements in the city.

According to an advisory, traffic curbs will be in place from 9 am to 12 noon along W Point, A Point, ITO Chowk, BSZ Marg, Delhi Gate, JLN Marg, Rajghat Crossing, Shanti Van Crossing, Hanuman Setu Y Point, Netaji Subhash Marg, Nishad Raj Marg, Saleem Garh Flyover By Pass, the MGM Pragati Maidan Tunnel to Hanuman Setu, Kashmere Gate, Vikas Marg and IP Marg.

The advisory states that the MGM Pragati Maidan Tunnel towards Hanuman Setu will remain closed during this period and commuters have been asked to use alternative routes. "Parking will be allowed only in designated areas," it read.

No parking will be permitted on Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg, JLN Marg and Ring Road from Hanuman Setu Shanti Van to Rajghat, IP Flyover to Pragati Maidan Tunnel, and along Nishad Raj Marg and IP Marg on Friday, it added.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin travelled in the same official car as they came out of the airport in Delhi.

Russian President Putin's agenda on December 5 includes a ceremonial welcome at Rashtrapati Bhavan, tributes at Rajghat, delegation-level talks with PM Modi, followed by a joint press statement, a business event with the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry, and a meeting with President Droupadi Murmu at the Rashtrapati Bhavan before his departure in the evening.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi received Russian President Vladimir Putin at Delhi airport this evening. Before both headed out in the same car, the two leaders shook hands, hugged each other and exchanged greetings.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi received Russian President Vladimir Putin at the airport when he arrived at Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport this evening. He will be in India for two days on a visit that has discussion on key issues including

Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal had a "productive" meeting with Russian Economic Development Minister Maxim Reshetnikov.

Both leaders discussed cooperation in areas like food & agriculture, pharmaceuticals, textiles, and automobiles. They affirmed their commitment to advancing the economic development of both our nations.

"Held a productive meeting with Mr Maxim Reshetnikov, Minister of Economic Development, Russia. We discussed cooperation in areas like food & agriculture, pharmaceuticals, textiles, automobiles, and more. Together, we are committed to unlocking the untapped potential and advancing the economic development of both our nations," Piyush Goyal said in a post on X.

Russian President Vladimir Putin landed in New Delhi on Thursday evening for a 27-hour visit that India views as a reaffirmation of one of its oldest and most resilient strategic partnerships in the world.

Russian President Vladimir Putin arrived in New Delhi on Thursday evening for a 27-hour visit.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday presented a copy of the Bhagavad Gita in Russian to visiting President Vladimir Putin, describing the scripture as a source of inspiration for people across the world.

Taking to X, the Prime Minister shared an image showing him handing over the Russian edition of the Gita to President Putin, who arrived here earlier in the evening.

"Presented a copy of the Gita in Russian to President Putin. The teachings of the Gita give inspiration to millions across the world," PM Modi wrote.

In the photograph shared, both leaders are seen holding the book as PM Modi presents it to the Russian President.

Russian President Vladimir Putin will hold summit talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi on Friday, aiming to boost trade with the top buyer of Russia's arms and seaborne oil as Western sanctions squeeze their decades-old ties.

Putin is on his first visit to India in four years at a time when New Delhi is engaged in talks with the U.S. for a trade deal to cut punitive tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump on its goods over India's Russian oil purchases.

Moscow has been India's top arms supplier for decades and has said that it wants to import more Indian goods in an effort to grow trade to $100 billion by 2030 that so far has been skewed in its favour due to New Delhi's energy imports.

Presented a copy of the Gita in Russian to President Putin. The teachings of the Gita give inspiration to millions across the world.@KremlinRussia_E pic.twitter.com/D2zczJXkU2

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 4, 2025

Putin and Modi heading for an informal dinner after greeting each other one more time in the car
Video: Zarubin / Telegram https://t.co/AiSC2gkagT pic.twitter.com/GCX2nikigf

— RT (@RT_com) December 4, 2025

Welcomed my friend, President Putin to 7, Lok Kalyan Marg.@KremlinRussia_E pic.twitter.com/2L7AZ1WIph

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 4, 2025

Russian President Vladimir Putin arrived in New Delhi on Thursday evening for a 27-hour visit.

Lok Kalyan Marg was decked up with India-Russia flags and special lighting on Thursday evening as Prime Minister Narendra Modi led Vladimir Putin inside his official residence for a private dinner, shortly after the Russian President landed in New Delhi for a two-day State Visit.

The two leaders had travelled together in the same car from the airport after PM Modi received Putin at the tarmac in a special gesture, showcasing the time-tested bond of friendship between both countries and the well-known camaraderie and bonhomie shared between them.

PM Modi stated that he is eagerly looking forward to his interactions with the Russian leader later in the evening and on Friday.

(IANS)

Evening prayers were held on Thursday during the Ganga Aarti in Varanasi to welcome Russian President Vladimir Putin, with 'Welcome Putin' spelt out in diyas.

(ANI)

Delighted to welcome my friend, President Putin to India. Looking forward to our interactions later this evening and tomorrow. India-Russia friendship is a time tested one that has greatly benefitted our people.@KremlinRussia_E pic.twitter.com/L7IORzRfV9

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 4, 2025

Prime Minister Narendra Modi received Russian President Vladimir Putin at the airport when he arrived at Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport this evening. He will be in India for two days on a visit that has discussion on key issues including

Prime Minister Narendra Modi received Russian President Vladimir Putin at Delhi airport this evening. Before both headed out in the same car, the two leaders shook hands, hugged each other and exchanged greetings.

In the airport visit to greet the Russian President and his friend, PM Modi broke protocol and brought a personal touch, which surprised the Russians, sources said.

PM Modi and Putin will share a private dinner later tonight. While official details are not available, the dinner is being hosted by PM Modi at his official home.

Russian President Vladimir Putin landed in India on Thursday for a two-day visit aimed at deepening defence ties, as New Delhi faces heavy US pressure to stop buying oil from Moscow.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is facing heavy US pressure to stop buying oil from Moscow, was at the airport to welcome the Russian leader in person, greeting him on the red carpet with a hug, before riding together in the same car.

Putin, on his first visit to India since the Ukraine war, is accompanied by his Defence Minister Andrei Belousov, with possible deals on fighter jets and air defence systems expected to be discussed.

(AFP)

Russian President Vladimir Putin landed in New Delhi on Thursday evening for a 27-hour visit that India views as a reaffirmation of one of its oldest and most resilient strategic partnerships in the world.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi received Russian President Vladimir Putin at Delhi airport this evening. Before both headed out in the same car, the two leaders shook hands, hugged each other and exchanged greetings.

#WATCH | Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin travel in the same car, as they depart from the Palam Technical Airport in Delhi
President Putin is on a two-day State visit to India. He will hold the 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit with PM Narendra… pic.twitter.com/oVtsOL7SnM

— ANI (@ANI) December 4, 2025

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin travelled in the same official car as they came out of the airport in Delhi.

PM Modi hugs Russian President Putin at Delhi airport; private dinner shortly

Prime Minister Narendra Modi reached the Palam airport to receive Russian President Vladimir Putin. 

PM Modi has previously received former Japanese PM Shinzo Abe, former Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina, US President Donald Trump apart from dignitaries from the UAE and Qatar.

Russian President Vladimir Putin landed in New Delhi on Thursday evening for a 27-hour visit that India views as a reaffirmation of one of its oldest and most resilient strategic partnerships in the world.

Russian President Vladimir Putin lands in New Delhi for a summit with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrives at New Delhi airport to receive Russian President Vladimir Putin. 

This marks Putin's first trip to India since Russia's war with Ukraine started in 2022.

On Friday, he will be accorded a ceremonial welcome before formal talks begin. Following the talks, PM Modi and President Putin will make a statement to the media. Putin will lay a wreath at the Mahatma Gandhi memorial on Friday.

(IANS)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will host a private dinner for Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday, hours after he lands in New Delhi to further expand a nearly eight-decade partnership that has remained steadfast notwithstanding fractious geopolitical environment and tensions.

Boosting defence ties, insulating India-Russia trade from external pressure and exploring cooperation in small modular reactors are set to be the focus of the summit meeting between Modi and Putin on Friday that is expected to be closely watched by Western capitals.

The Russian leader's nearly 27-hour visit to New Delhi has assumed greater significance as it is taking place against the backdrop of rapid downturn in India-US relations.

(PTI)

The aircraft carrying Russian President Vladimir Putin is the most tracked flight in the world right now, according to Flight Radar 24.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and his Russian counterpart Andrei Belousov today laid a wreath & paid homage to the fallen heroes at the National War Memorial in New Delhi ahead of the 22nd meeting of the India-Russia Inter-Governmental Commission on Military & Military Technical Cooperation at Manekshaw Centre.

Russia and India call each other "time-tested" friends with ties dating back to the Soviet era, but their relationship has come under significant pressure since Moscow's invasion of Ukraine.

US President Donald Trump has pressured India to curb purchases of Russian oil -- arguing it is fuelling Moscow's war -- and has imposed steep 50 percent tariffs on New Delhi.

The relationship comes under further scrutiny as Russian President Vladimir Putin visits New Delhi on Thursday, his first trip to India since December 2021. He last met Prime Minister Narendra Modi in September in China.

(AFP)

Union Minister of Health & Family Welfare, Jagat Prakash Nadda, on Thursday, met with Mikhail Murashko, the Health Minister of the Russian Federation, to discuss enhancing bilateral collaboration and partnership in the health sector.

In a post shared on X, JP Nadda said, "Met Mr. Mikhail Murashko, Hon'ble Health Minister of Russian Federation today. Discussed various health sector related issues and agreed to enhance bilateral collaboration and partnership in health sector. Both sides reaffirmed commitment to advancing a shared vision of accessibility to affordable and quality healthcare."

Our most tracked flight now: one of the Russian government aircraft en route to India. Russian President Putin and Indian PM Modi are scheduled to meet over two days in Delhi. https://t.co/Q5GikRN1Vd pic.twitter.com/DcbA9wFYrF

— Flightradar24 (@flightradar24) December 4, 2025

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will receive Russian President Vladimir Putin from New Delhi airport on Thursday evening. PM-level protocol arrangements are in place at Palam Technical Airport.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday said that Russia remains India's strategic partner in technology and Defence despite the recent geopolitical developments.

Speaking at the 22nd India-Russia Inter-Governmental Commission on Military & Military Technical Cooperation (IRIGC-M&MTC) ministerial meeting at Manekshaw Centre here, Singh said that the meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin will further strengthen the special privileged partnership between the two nations.

"Russia is India's strategic partner in technology and defence. Our relationship has been maintained despite geopolitical developments. Our Prime Minister and President Putin have been in regular contact at the apex level. During the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Summit in China in June 2025, both leaders held extensive interactions," the Defence Minister said.

(ANI)

Ahead of Russian President's visit to India, Janata Dal (United) MP Sanjay Kumar Jha said on Thursday that Putin's visit is an auspicious sign for trade or other defence matters.

Jha highlighted that India has a very long-standing relationship with Russia.

"This is very good because we have had a very old relationship with Russia. PM Modi has been visiting Russia, and Putin ji's visit is an auspicious sign for trade or other defence matters," he said.

(ANI)

(Government sources)

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and his Russian counterpart Andrei Belousov on Thursday laid a wreath at the National War Memorial and pay tribute to the Indian soldiers who have made the supreme sacrifice in the line of duty.

Earlier in the day, Belousov arrived in New Delhi to co-chair the 22nd India-Russia Inter-Governmental Commission on Military and Military Technical Cooperation ministerial meeting with Rajnath Singh.

The 22nd India-Russia Inter-Governmental Commission on Military and Military Technical Cooperation ministerial meeting will be held at the Manekshaw Centre.

(IANS)

The Prime Minister and President Vladimir Putin will meet on Thursday evening, as they have several times since Narendra Modi assumed office.

Calling India-Russia ties "strong and deep," Jammu & Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday said President Vladimir Putin's visit to India is expected to bolster bilateral relations further.

CM Abdullah added that Prime Minister Narendra Modi's rapport with Putin could also serve as an opportunity to help Ukraine improve its ties with Russia and foster peace.

(ANI)

The aircraft is manufactured by the Voronezh Aircraft Production Association and operated by Russia's Special Flight Squadron, which handles all presidential travel.

#NDTVExclusive | From Bin Laden To Pak To Nukes, When Putin Spoke To NDTV 23 Years Ago@VishnuNDTV pic.twitter.com/VRlT870Iqb

— NDTV (@ndtv) December 4, 2025

Prime Minister @narendramodi and President Vladimir Putin have had a long relationship that goes back to almost 25 years. Old memorable photographs from Moscow in 2001, when Gujarat Chief Minister Modi had accompanied India’s Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee to Russia. pic.twitter.com/VgiuB0pvNd

— Aditya Raj Kaul (@AdityaRajKaul) December 4, 2025

Russian President Vladimir Putin's interview with NDTV 23 years ago has some lines that in hindsight seemed prophetic about the times today.

Russian Finance Minister Anton Siluanov expressed confidence that Russia and India can reach their shared goal of achieving $100 billion in trade turnover by 2030, citing rapid growth in recent years and expanding cooperation across multiple sectors.

Reflecting on the progress already made, Siluanov noted how the current figures have surpassed earlier expectations. "In 2018, Vladimir Vladimirovich said that the target was 30 billion dollars, but our trade turnover is 68 billion. How did we manage to be even twice as fast, what helped."

(ANI)

#BREAKING | Russia's Defence Minister Andrei Belousov arrives in Delhi
The Russian Defence Minister will co-chair the 22nd India-Russia Inter-Governmental Commission on Military & Military Technical Cooperation ministerial meeting with Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh later… pic.twitter.com/4L2NAz4Iph

— NDTV (@ndtv) December 4, 2025

India and Russia aim to raise two-way trade to $100 billion by 2030, after trade rose more than five-fold from about $13 billion in 2021 to near $69 billion in 2024-25, almost entirely driven by India's energy imports. 

Bilateral trade eased to $28.25 billion in April-August 2025, reflecting a decline in crude oil imports following punitive tariffs on Indian goods and sanctions imposed by Washington.

Russia wants to import more Indian goods to balance bilateral trade, which is currently heavily skewed towards energy, Deputy Kremlin Chief of Staff Maxim Oreshkin told a business conference in New Delhi.

(Reuters)

Russian President Vladimir Putin arrives in India today, and with him comes his security convoy, which includes one of the world's most secretive and heavily protected vehicles: the Aurus Senat.

Hyderabad House in Delhi plays a prominent role in Russian President Vladimir Putin's two-day India visit

Putin will reside in ITC Maurya’s most opulent suite, the Chanakya Suite

Beyond defence, trade relations are expected to feature prominently as India walks a diplomatic tightrope -- relying on strategic Russian oil imports while trying not to provoke US President Donald Trump during ongoing tariff negotiations.

India, the world's most populous nation, has become a major buyer of Russian oil, saving itself billions of dollars and providing Moscow with a much-needed export market after it was cut off from traditional buyers in Europe because of the war.

But Delhi has recently cut down on crude imports under pressure from sanctions on Russia's top oil producers Rosneft and Lukoil.

(AFP)

Vladimir Putin’s foreign trips are conducted with extreme secrecy, precision and an elaborate security system led by Russia’s Federal Protective Service.

The 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit, scheduled for Friday, comes at a time when the US has imposed punitive sanctions on New Delhi and will focus on strengthening defence cooperation, along with discussions on trade and energy partnerships.

On Wednesday, Russian Presidential Aide Yuri Ushakov called the upcoming meeting during a private dinner between Putin and PM Modi "one of the key points of the Russian leader's visit," Russian state-run news agency TASS reported. According to Ushakov, Putin will discuss important issues of bilateral ties and the international situation with PM Modi.

(IANS)

Russian President Vladimir Putin has left for India and is scheduled to arrive in New Delhi Thursday evening for a two-day state visit as part of the 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit.

During the Russian President's 2021 trip, squeezed into a five-hour window because of the pandemic, Putin and Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke about defence, energy, and long-term partnership.

A group in Varanasi on Thursday organised an "India-Russia Friendship March" to welcome Russian President Vladimir Putin ahead of his arrival in India for the annual summit with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Varanasi is the Lok Sabha constituency of PM Modi since 2014. Putin's India visit will be limited to the national capital only.

(PTI)

Russian President Vladimir Putin arrives in New Delhi this evening for a two-day state visit aimed at strengthening one of the world's most enduring bilateral partnerships.