India-Russia Relations: Defence, Energy, and Strategic Ties
TOPIC CLASSIFICATION
Subject: International Relations Sub-area: Bilateral Relations - India & Russia Prelim PYQ Trend: High (frequent questions on joint exercises, defence deals) Mains Relevance: GS-2 (Bilateral Relations, Defence)
EXAMINER REASONING
India-Russia relations are a staple of UPSC international relations. The examiner tests: (a) defence - S-400 Triumf, AK-203 rifles, INS Tushil, BrahMos (joint venture), nuclear submarines (INS Chakra); (b) energy - oil imports from Russia (post-Ukraine surge), Sakhalin-1, Arctic LNG 2; (c) strategic convergence - multilateral platforms (BRICS, SCO, UNSC reform), India's multi-alignment; (d) challenges - declining trade ($50 bn target unrealised), Russia-China proximity, payment mechanism (RuPay-MIR issues). Expect a nuanced question on the 'tested but not equated' nature of the relationship.
Core Concept
Historical Foundations:
- Soviet Era: USSR supported India's industrialisation (Bhilai Steel Plant, Bokaro); vetoed UNSC resolutions on Kashmir; 1971 Treaty of Peace and Friendship → intervened in 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War
- Post-Cold War: 1993 Treaty of Friendship; 2001 Strategic Partnership; 2010 Declaration on Civil Nuclear Cooperation
Defence Cooperation:
| System | Type | Status |
|---|---|---|
| BrahMos Missile | Supersonic cruise missile (JV) | Deployed; export to Philippines |
| S-400 Triumf | Air defence system | 5 regiments ordered;... |
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