Indian tourists to Russia doubled in 2024 to over 120,000, while Russian visits to India reached 160,000—surpassing 2021-22 combined. The Indian Embassy estimates mutual tourist numbers could exceed 450,000 by 2025.
India and Russia are witnessing a renewed surge in bilateral engagement across multiple domains—from booming tourism and deep-rooted diplomatic ties to growing defence collaboration. As both nations celebrated the 78th anniversary of diplomatic relations this week, new data and developments underscore the dynamic trajectory of the Indo-Russian partnership.
Tourism Boom: Over 450K Visits Expected by 2025
According to the Indian Embassy in Moscow, the number of Indian tourists travelling to Russia has more than doubled in 2024, reaching over 120,000 compared to around 60,000 in 2023. Meanwhile, Russian tourist visits to India stood at approximately 160,000 last year—exceeding the combined total of 2021 and 2022.
“If this trend continues, the mutual tourist flow can potentially surpass 450,000 by 2025,” the Indian mission noted, as reported by TV BRICS.
The surge in tourism is being aided by liberalised visa regimes, expanded air connectivity, and deeper cultural exchanges. India is keen on further simplifying travel procedures, especially by extending the validity of electronic visas. A recent move to ease travel protocols for athletes and coaches is also expected to add momentum.
Moscow is set to host a large-scale Indo-Russian tourism congress this July, featuring officials and business leaders from both countries. The event aims to capitalise on this upward trend and boost people-to-people exchanges.
Celebrating 78 Years of Diplomatic Ties
On April 13, India and Russia marked 78 years since the establishment of formal diplomatic ties in 1947. The Russian Foreign Ministry issued a statement reaffirming its commitment to “rapid and consistent development” of ties with India. It described the bilateral relationship as one of “mutual trust,” characterised by “reliability, high intensity of political interaction, and a particularly privileged strategic partnership.”
Cultural, humanitarian, and economic ties have continued to flourish alongside strong political coordination. “Our countries work to ensure stability, global and regional security, and closely cooperate within the BRICS and SCO,” the statement said, also reaffirming Russia’s long-standing support for India’s bid for a permanent seat on the UN Security Council.
Celebratory events were held in both capitals. In New Delhi, a cycling rally saw the participation of over 300 people and also commemorated the 80th anniversary of Russia’s victory in the Great Patriotic War.
“Warm greetings to our Indian friends on the 78th anniversary of Russia-India diplomatic relations! Our unwavering friendship, mutual respect and strategic partnership are a matter of pride,” posted Russian Ambassador to India Denis Alipov.
Indo-Russian Rifles Venture
In a notable defence development, Indo-Russian Rifles Private Limited (IRRPL) has announced its bid to supply domestically produced AK-203 assault rifles to the Kerala Police. The joint venture, located in Amethi, Uttar Pradesh, was established to manufacture rifles from the Kalashnikov family using Russian technology under India’s ‘Make in India’ initiative.
The Kalashnikov AK-203, chambered for the 7.62×39 mm cartridge, is known for its adaptability, reliability, and ease of maintenance. Currently being manufactured in India on certified Russian equipment, the rifles are being positioned for wider deployment across Indian defence and law enforcement agencies.
“The Korwa Ordnance Factory has the capacity to meet the needs of India’s Ministry of Defence and other security forces. The joint venture will also be able to export to third countries in the future,” said Alexander Mikheev, CEO of Rosoboronexport.
This collaboration dates back to 2019, when Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the facility in the presence of top defence officials. Russian President Vladimir Putin, in a message at the time, said the joint venture would eventually lead to full localisation of production and contribute meaningfully to India’s national security capabilities.
A Partnership Rooted in Shared Vision
India and Russia’s evolving partnership spans key sectors including energy, nuclear power, transport, and space exploration. Both countries continue to invest in a multipolar global order and advocate for stronger representation of the Global South in international governance.
“The high dynamics of Russian-Indian contacts at all levels, as well as the record trade turnover, reflect our countries’ commitment to equal, trusting, and mutually beneficial cooperation,” stated the Russian Embassy in New Delhi.
With increased defence collaboration, booming tourism, and shared geopolitical goals, the India-Russia relationship is poised to enter a new era of multidimensional engagement—anchored in trust, history, and a vision for a more balanced world order.
