New Delhi has beefed up security for Russian President Vladimir Putin’s visit. He is expected to arrive later in the evening, according to PTI. Authorities have deployed snipers, special weapons and tactics (SWAT) units and rapid response teams to sensitive locations. India Today reported that anti-aircraft guns were also placed at strategic locations to counter any aerial threats.
His first visit in four years comes at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the 23rd annual India-Russia summit.
Senior police officials noted that multiple security units will jointly monitor Putin’s every move from the moment he lands until he leaves. Top police officers in Delhi are overseeing route security, traffic control and area sanitation at all locations on the Russian president’s itinerary. High definition CCTV networks and technical monitoring systems are active in areas associated with the visit. Traffic restrictions and regulated pedestrian movement are expected near key locations; however, officials said advance warnings would be issued to minimize disruption to traffic.
“Minute-to-minute coordination is going on and all concerned agencies have been instructed to maintain maximum vigilance at all times. Over 5,000 policemen will be deployed to maintain strict vigil,” an officer told PTI.
Another officer said, “All routes mapped for VVIP movement have been secured in advance. Traffic alerts will be issued from time to time to minimize inconvenience to commuters. Anti-drone systems will be in place.”
What could the talks be about during Russian President Putin’s visit to India?
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov indicated that the potential talks could touch on two key defense topics: adding another S-400 missile system and discussing the fifth-generation Su-57 fighter jet. Describing the Su-57 as “the best aircraft in the world”, he highlighted Moscow’s interest in expanding defense technology cooperation, including joint projects such as BrahMos.
Peskov also emphasized Russia’s goal to strengthen cooperation in the civil nuclear sector. He noted that Moscow is ready to offer compact reactor technology to India while continuing work on existing projects such as Kudankulam.
Later, the two leaders are scheduled to attend a business event co-hosted by the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) and Roscongress at the Bharat Mandapam. Before leaving, Putin will join a state dinner hosted by President Droupadi Murmu at the Rashtrapati Bhawan. He is traveling with the Russian delegation, which includes Defense Minister Andrej Belousov and other high-ranking officials.
Prime Minister Modi and President Putin had earlier met on September 1 during the SCO Council of Heads of State meeting in Tianjin, China. According to newswire ANI, they also had five phone conversations in 2025.
