Geopolitical signaling, strategic autonomy and a decisive shift in power equation: India’s diplomacy sparkles during Putin visit

Russian President Vladimir Putin’s visit to India showcased strong geopolitical signalling and India’s assertion of strategic autonomy despite Western pressure to distance itself from Moscow. While no major defence deals were announced, the visit emphasized a shift toward joint production, technology transfer, and diversifying the relationship beyond defence and energy. India highlighted the need to correct the sharp trade imbalance and pushed for greater Russian imports of Indian goods. Modi’s personal reception of Putin signaled India’s independent foreign policy choices. The visit also reaffirmed the partners’ shared interest in a multipolar world, even as India balanced ties with the West and navigated sanctions-driven energy constraints.