In between, he held talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, attended a business forum and announced the launch of Russia Today, a Kremlin-funded state-controlled TV network. The Russian leader has faced diplomatic isolation since the Ukraine war began in 2022 and the red carpet laid down by Delhi would have sent a strong message to the West.

As the White House tries to curb Moscow's energy income, Vladimir Putin enjoys a warm welcome in India, and promises an "uninterrupted supply" of Russian fuel.

“By engaging Putin so prominently, India was also sending an overt message of defiance, using its relationship with Moscow to highlight its independent stance in global affairs” said a senior western diplomat in Delhi, declining to be named, as he was not authorised to comment on the Putin visit.

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

In this Special Report, India Today's Akshita Nandagopal anchors live coverage of Russian President Vladimir Putin's arrival in New Delhi. Managing Editor Gaurav Sawant analyses the significance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's decision to personally receive Putin at the airport and travel with him in the 'same car' to 7 Lok Kalyan Marg.