Web Desk — December 6, 2025
India has announced the introduction of free e-tourist visas for Russian citizens, a major boost to people-to-people ties between the two strategic partners.
The decision was revealed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the 22nd India-Russia Annual Summit in New Delhi, attended by Russian President Vladimir Putin. Addressing a joint press conference, Modi stated that Russian nationals will soon be eligible for 30-day free individual e-tourist visas as well as 30-day group tourist visas, effective in the coming weeks.
The visa waiver is expected to significantly increase Russian tourist arrivals, which have already surged in recent years, with India emerging as one of the top winter destinations for Russian travellers.
During the summit, both leaders reviewed the full spectrum of bilateral relations, with special emphasis on expanding cooperation in defence and energy sectors. India expressed continued interest in procuring additional S-400 missile defence systems from Russia and upgrading its fleet of Su-30MKI fighter jets with Russian assistance.
The two sides also set an ambitious target of elevating bilateral trade from the current $68 billion to $100 billion by 2030, building on robust growth driven by energy imports and fertiliser supplies despite global geopolitical challenges.
The summit underscored the resilience of India-Russia ties, with agreements signed across nuclear energy, space, and investment facilitation, reinforcing the “special and privileged strategic partnership” that has endured for decades.
Russian President Putin thanked India for its warm hospitality and independent foreign policy stance, while PM Modi highlighted that the partnership continues to deliver mutual benefits in an increasingly multipolar world.
