India Announces Free e-Tourist Visas for Russian Citizens

NEW DELHI: India has announced a major visa relaxation for Russian travelers, declaring that Russian citizens will soon be eligible for a 30-day free e-tourist visa as well as a 30-day group tourist visa. The announcement was made by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the annual India–Russia summit held in New Delhi, which was also attended by Russian President Vladimir Putin.

During their joint press conference, PM Modi highlighted that the step aims to boost tourism and strengthen people-to-people contact between the two nations. Indian officials noted that the initiative aligns with India’s broader strategy to expand tourism inflows and enhance global connectivity.

Beyond tourism, the Modi–Putin meeting also focused on deepening cooperation in defence and energy sectors. India expressed interest in acquiring additional S-400 missile systems from Russia, as well as upgrading its fleet of Russian-built SU-30 fighter jets to enhance operational capability.

Economic ties were also a major part of the discussion. Both leaders reviewed ongoing trade projects, while India expressed its ambition to increase bilateral trade volume from the current $68 billion to $100 billion by 2030. Analysts believe that this goal, though ambitious, reflects the growing strategic partnership between New Delhi and Moscow, particularly amid shifting global geopolitical dynamics.

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The strengthened cooperation is expected to pave the way for greater defence collaboration, energy partnerships—including nuclear and oil projects—and expanded market opportunities for both countries.