New Delhi, December 5, 2025:Russian President Vladimir Putin received a grand ceremonial welcome at Rashtrapati Bhavan this morning as he began the second day of his official visit to India. The forecourt of the Presidential Palace witnessed full diplomatic protocol, showcasing the depth of the longstanding India–Russia partnership.
President Putin was greeted by President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who personally welcomed the visiting leader. As per tradition, the ceremony began with the national anthems of India and Russia.
A Tri-Services Guard of Honour—comprising contingents from the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force—was presented to President Putin. He then inspected the guard as military bands played ceremonial tunes.
The welcome underscored the significance India attaches to its relationship with Russia, especially amid evolving global geopolitical dynamics.
Following the ceremony, President Putin visited Raj Ghat, where he paid homage to Mahatma Gandhi by laying a wreath. This symbolic gesture highlighted respect for India’s values and traditions before the start of high-level diplomatic engagements.
President Putin’s two-day visit includes a packed schedule:
- 17th India–Russia Annual Summit with PM Modi
- Discussions on defence cooperation, nuclear energy, hydrocarbons, space collaboration, and emerging technology
- Signing of multiple bilateral agreements
- A meeting with top Indian business leaders
- A state banquet hosted in his honour at Rashtrapati Bhavan
Both sides are expected to formalize cooperation frameworks in areas of energy supply, defence manufacturing, and trade diversification.
The ceremonial welcome signals that despite global tensions, India and Russia continue to value their “Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership.”
India’s decision to roll out the red carpet for President Putin reflects:
- Its commitment to maintaining balanced, independent diplomacy
- The pivotal role Russia plays in India’s defence architecture
- Expanding cooperation in oil trade, nuclear power, and Arctic development
- India’s growing role as a stabilizing force in global geopolitics
This visit is widely seen as a major diplomatic moment, especially as both countries explore avenues to boost bilateral trade and strengthen long-term strategic ties.
