Recently, India and Russia marked the 75th anniversary of their diplomatic relations. This milestone occurs amidst ongoing tensions in the Russia-Ukraine war. The relationship between the two nations, which strengthened following the “Declaration on the India-Russia Strategic Partnership” signed in October 2000, has evolved significantly over time.
This article delves into the multiple facets of the Indo-Russia relationship, including its historical trajectory, contemporary political dynamics, trade relations, defense and security collaborations, and other notable sectors of cooperation.
Historical Background of Indo-Russia Relationship
India and Russia have maintained a long-standing association since the Cold War era when both nations shared a strategic, military, economic, and diplomatic bond. Post the dissolution of the Soviet Union, Russia continued this close relationship with India, resulting in a special strategic relation. However, recent years, particularly the post-Covid period, have seen a steep dip in these ties, primarily due to Russia’s strengthening relations with China and Pakistan – both significant geopolitical entities for India.
Political Relations: Annual Summit & Inter-Governmental Commissions
A high-level institutionalized dialogue mechanism, the Annual Summit meeting, forms the foundation of India-Russia’s strategic alliance. Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India and President Vladimir Putin of Russia held their first informal summit in Russia’s Sochi city in 2018. Two Inter-Governmental Commissions, one focused on Trade, Economic, Scientific, Technological and Cultural Cooperation (IRIGC-TEC), and the other on Military-Technical Cooperation (IRIGC- MTC), meet annually to further solidify this relationship.
Trade Relations: Aiming for Increased Bilateral Investment
India and Russia intend to increase bilateral investment to $50 billion and bilateral trade to $30 billion by 2025. Bilateral trade accounted for $8.1 billion in the financial year 2020. Despite a significant decline between 2013 and 2016, trade has been on the rise since 2017.
Defence and Security Relations: Joint Research and Advanced Defence Technologies
Transitioning from a buyer-seller framework, India-Russia military-technical cooperation now involves joint research, development, and production of advanced defense technologies and systems. Both countries conduct a Tri-services exercise, ‘INDRA,’ regularly. Many joint military programs and purchasing or leasing of military hardware constitute this relationship’s defense aspect.
Nuclear Relations: Peaceful Use of Nuclear Energy
Russia is a key partner in the peaceful use of nuclear energy for India. The Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant, being built in India, exemplifies this partnership. Both countries are also collaboratively implementing the Rooppur Nuclear Power Project in Bangladesh.
Space Exploration, Science, and Technology
Both nations cooperate in the peaceful use of outer space, including satellite launches and the GLONASS navigation system. Among the three main institutional mechanisms for bilateral Science and Technology cooperation, there are multiple new initiatives, such as the India-Russia Bridge to Innovation.
Cultural Relations: Teaching of Languages and Cultural Exchange
Around 20 Russian Institutions teach Hindi and other Indian languages. Besides, Indian dance, music, yoga, and Ayurveda have garnered considerable interest among the people of Russia.
Significance of Russia for India: Balancing China and Other Aspects
Apart from its historic economic, political, and defense ties, Russia has significance for India in various emerging sectors, including mining, agro-industrial, and high technology industries. Besides, Russia assists in combating terrorism, supports India at multilateral forums, and has been a significant arms exporter to India.
Way Forward: Timely Maintenance Support and Acknowledging Importance of Each Other
The way forward for further strengthening Indo-Russian relations lies in ensuring timely supply of spares and support for Russian hardware in the Indian military. While Russia remains a key defense partner for India, both nations need to acknowledge each other’s importance in the changing geopolitical landscape and continue their joint military production endeavors.
