Russian state broadcaster RT has launched a Hindi‑language channel in India this week, coinciding with President Vladimir Putin’s arrival for a summit of emerging economies. The move follows the launch of RT’s English bureau in December during a state visit by the Russian president.
Reporters Without Borders warns that RT’s expansion could spread disinformation. Celia Mercier, head of RSF South Asia Desk, said the channel is part of a broader strategy to expand the Kremlin’s propaganda apparatus under the guise of international media. The Russian embassy’s chargé d’affaires said the channel would provide reliable information to Hindi‑speaking audiences.
India and Russia have maintained close ties since the Cold War, with cooperation in defence, oil, nuclear energy and space. India bought its first aircraft carrier, INS Vikramaditya, from Russia in 2004 and remains one of the largest buyers of Russian oil, a trade that has helped Moscow replenish its coffers amid Western sanctions. Bilateral trade reached a record $70 billion in 2024, tripling since the 2022 conflict.
Putin and Prime Minister Narendra Modi are expected to discuss sanctions, energy deals, the sale of Su‑57 fighter aircraft and Russian involvement in new nuclear power plants in India. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said the discussions are constructive and that India has expressed interest in expanding Russian investment.
Modi recently urged Russia to end the war in Ukraine for the sake of humanity, a plea he reiterated after visiting Kyiv. While the India‑Russia relationship remains resilient, the Ukrainian conflict will likely remain a key topic at the upcoming BRICS summit, which will also see Chinese President Xi Jinping attend for the first time in seven years.
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