India–Russia Partnership: Ancient to Modern Introduction

India–Russia Partnership: Ancient to Modern Introduction 

India and Russia share a relationship that has evolved over centuries, from cultural and intellectual exchanges in ancient times to deep strategic and defense cooperation in the modern era. This bond is often described as “time-tested,” as it has survived shifting global dynamics while retaining mutual trust and respect.

Ancient and Early Contacts 

The connections between India and the regions of present-day Russia can be traced to ancient trade routes like the Silk Road. Indian ideas such as Buddhism reached Central Asia and later influenced Russian lands. In the 15th century, Russian traveler Afanasy Nikitin visited India and recorded his experiences in “Journey Beyond Three Seas,” giving Russia one of its earliest detailed accounts of India’s society and culture.

19th Century Cultural and Intellectual Links 

In the 19th century, Russian thinkers and writers developed a fascination with Indian philosophy. Leo Tolstoy was influenced by Indian spiritual texts, and his writings later inspired Mahatma Gandhi’s non-violence movement. Russian universities began studying Sanskrit, yoga, and Indian traditions, creating a foundation of cultural closeness.

India–Soviet Relations in the 20th Century 

After India’s independence in 1947, the Soviet Union became one of its strongest partners. The USSR helped India in industrialization, such as building the Bhilai Steel Plant (1959).

The relationship reached a turning point in 1971 when India and the Soviet Union signed the Treaty of Peace, Friendship, and Cooperation. This treaty gave India crucial Soviet support during the Indo-Pak War of 1971, which led to the creation of Bangladesh.

Defense and Strategic Cooperation 

Defense ties became the backbone of Indo-Russian friendship. The Soviet Union supplied India with modern weapons, tanks like T-72 and T-90, aircraft such as MiG and Sukhoi fighters, and submarines.

Even in the 21st century, defense remains central. The co-production of the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile and India’s purchase of S-400 missile defense systems highlight strategic trust.

Post-Soviet Era and Strategic Partnership 

After the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991, both countries redefined their ties. In 2000, they signed a Strategic Partnership Agreement, later upgraded to a Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership in 2010.

Russia supported India’s Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant and other energy projects, expanding cooperation beyond defense.

Economic and Energy Cooperation 

India and Russia are strengthening trade, with a target of $100 billion by 2030. India has invested in Russian oil and gas fields in Siberia, while Russia has invited Indian companies to Arctic energy projects.

The International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC) and the Chennai–Vladivostok Maritime Corridor are being developed to improve trade connectivity.

Multilateral and Global Cooperation 

India and Russia coordinate closely in multilateral forums such as BRICS, Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), and the G20. Both support a multipolar world order and advocate reform of global institutions like the UN Security Council.

During the Russia–Ukraine conflict (2022 onwards), India balanced relations by maintaining energy ties with Russia while calling for peace and dialogue, reflecting pragmatic diplomacy.

Cultural and People-to-People Relations 

Indian films, yoga, and classical dance have remained popular in Russia since Soviet times, while Indian readers admire Russian literature and ballet. Thousands of Indian students study in Russian universities, especially in medicine and engineering, deepening people-to-people contact.

Conclusion 

The India–Russia partnership, rooted in history and tested by time, continues to remain strategically significant. From ancient exchanges to modern defense and energy ties, both nations have built a relationship that reflects trust, mutual benefit, and shared visions for a balanced global order. Despite India’s growing engagement with the West, Russia remains an indispensable partner in India’s foreign policy.