Russian and Indian leaders reaffirm ‘strategic partnership’ and highlight joint work on nuclear power and critical materials

India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi hosted Russia’s President Vladimir Putin on Friday, with defense and trade ties taking center stage as New Delhi faces heavy United States pressure to stop buying Moscow’s oil.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in a Toyota Fortuner instead of his usual Range Rover or Mercedes-Maybach to receive Russian President Vladimir Putin, sparking speculation online.

Kashmiri saffron: Locally known as Kong or zafran, Kashmiri saffron is cultivated in the highlands of the mountaineous Indian region. It is prized for its rich colour, aroma, and flavour. It is also protected by GI recognition. It is renowned for its health benefits and sometimes called “red gold”.

President Vladimir Putin arrived in New Delhi for his first state visit to India since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, showcasing warming ties that have angered the US and led to hefty trade tariffs.

In a world exclusive interview with India Today's Foreign Affairs Editor Gita Mohan, Russian President Vladimir Putin heaps praise on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, stating, 'India got lucky. He lives India.