President Putin Pays Tribute at Rajghat, Begins Full-Day Diplomatic Engagements in New Delhi

New Delhi, Dec 2025 : Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday paid floral tribute to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat, marking a symbolic start to the key diplomatic engagements of his two-day State Visit to India. The Russian leader laid a wreath at the memorial and signed the visitor’s book, reflecting respect for India’s freedom struggle and the legacy of non-violence. Union Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh accompanied President Putin during the visit.

Earlier in the day, President Putin was accorded a grand ceremonial welcome at the forecourt of Rashtrapati Bhavan. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Droupadi Murmu received the Russian leader, following which both Heads of State introduced the distinguished members of their respective delegations. The ceremonial reception highlighted the warmth and depth of the long-standing India-Russia partnership.

Later on Friday, Prime Minister Modi and President Putin are scheduled to hold high-level official talks at Hyderabad House. The discussions are expected to focus on strengthening cooperation in key areas such as defence, energy, regional security, and long-term economic partnerships. Following the delegation-level talks, the two leaders will issue joint press statements outlining the outcomes and future direction of bilateral relations.

President Putin will also participate in a major business event aimed at enhancing commercial and investment ties between the two countries. In the evening, President Droupadi Murmu will host a formal banquet in honour of the visiting Russian President at Rashtrapati Bhavan.

Putin began his State Visit on Thursday evening and was received with extraordinary warmth by Prime Minister Modi at the airport. In a rare and symbolic personal gesture, the Prime Minister accompanied the Russian leader from the tarmac to the official residence in the same vehicle. The two leaders exchanged a warm embrace upon arrival and briefly witnessed a cultural performance arranged as part of the ceremonial welcome.

During his visit, PM Modi also presented a Russian translation of the Bhagavad Gita to President Putin, describing the sacred text as a source of global inspiration. Sharing the moment on social media platform X, the Prime Minister wrote, “Presented a copy of the Gita in Russian to President Putin. The teachings of the Gita give inspiration to millions across the world.” The photograph showed both leaders holding the book together, underscoring the cultural dimension of the visit.

New Delhi was extensively decorated ahead of the high-profile visit, with banners lining key roads and major stretches including Lok Kalyan Marg illuminated with special lighting and adorned with India-Russia flags. The visual preparations reflected the significance of the visit, which comes amid shifting global geopolitical dynamics and underlines the enduring strategic importance of India-Russia relations.