India-Russia Relations: Milestones in Chronological Order

Here's a list of major and minor milestones in India-Russia relations, explained with their historical context and importance:

Early Years (1947-1971): Laying the Foundation

• 1947: India gains independence. The USSR recognizes India immediately.
  • Context: End of British colonial rule.
  • Importance: Marked the beginning of bilateral relations.
• 1955: Nehru-Bulganin pact leads to increased economic and technical cooperation.
  • Context: Cold War tensions.
  • Importance: Strengthened ties despite different political ideologies.
• 1955: India and USSR jointly advocate for peace and non-alignment at the Bandung Conference.
  • Context: Rise of the Non-Aligned Movement.
  • Importance: Demonstrated shared commitment to international cooperation.
• 1962: USSR begins supplying military equipment to India.
  • Context: Sino-Indian War.
  • Importance: Shifted the balance of power in South Asia; deepened military ties.
• 1971: Indo-Soviet Treaty of Peace, Friendship and Cooperation signed.
  • Context: Bangladesh Liberation War.
  • Importance: A landmark treaty solidifying strategic partnership; USSR's support for India during the war cemented the relationship.

Cold War Era (1971-1991): Strengthening the Partnership

• 1970s-1980s: Extensive economic collaboration, including the establishment of numerous public sector enterprises with Soviet assistance.
  • Context: India's socialist leanings.
  • Importance: Boosted India's industrial development; solidified economic ties.
• 1980s: India purchases MiG-29 fighter jets and other military equipment from the USSR.
  • Context: Growing military modernization efforts by India.
  • Importance: Further cemented India's dependence on Soviet/Russian military technology.

Post-Cold War (1991-2000): Navigating Transition

• 1991: Dissolution of the USSR. India recognizes the Russian Federation as the successor state.
  • Context: End of the Cold War, dramatic geopolitical shifts.
  • Importance: Despite the upheaval, India maintained continuity in relations with Russia.
• 1993: Signing of the Treaty of Friendship and Cooperation, replacing the 1971 treaty.
  • Context: Adapting the relationship to the post-Cold War era.
  • Importance: Reaffirmed strategic partnership while acknowledging the changed global landscape.

21st Century (2000-Present): Strategic Partnership in a Multipolar World

• 2000: Establishment of the "Strategic Partnership" during President Putin's visit to India.
  • Context: Growing convergence on global issues.
  • Importance: Elevated the relationship beyond historical ties to address contemporary challenges.
• 2000s: Significant increase in bilateral trade and investment, particularly in the energy sector.
  • Context: India's economic rise and energy needs.
  • Importance: Diversification of the relationship beyond defense and political cooperation.
• 2000s-Present: Joint military exercises (INDRA) and defense collaborations, including the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile project.
  • Context: Modernization of armed forces, joint development of advanced technology.
  • Importance: Enhanced military interoperability and cemented Russia as a crucial defense partner.
• 2010s: India joins BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa), a grouping of emerging economies.
  • Context: Rise of multipolarity and south-south cooperation.
  • Importance: Platform for India and Russia to collaborate on global governance and economic issues.
• 2014: Russia becomes the first country to sign a deal for India's "Make in India" initiative in the defense sector.
  • Context: India's push for indigenous defense production.
  • Importance: Signals Russia's willingness to adapt to India's evolving priorities.
• 2019: India abstains from voting on the Crimea issue at the UN, signalling a neutral stance.
  • Context: Russia's annexation of Crimea and tensions with the West.
  • Importance: Illustrates India's independent foreign policy approach and balancing act between strategic partners.
• 2020s: Despite growing pressure from the West, India continues to purchase Russian oil and military equipment.
  • Context: Russia-Ukraine War and Western sanctions on Russia.
  • Importance: Signals India's commitment to its strategic autonomy and the enduring importance of the relationship with Russia.

Present and Future:

India-Russia relations are at a crossroads. While the historical partnership remains strong, navigating the complexities of the evolving geopolitical landscape, especially in light of the Russia-Ukraine war, presents new challenges and necessitates adjustments. However, the deep-rooted trust and shared interests in various fields suggest that the relationship will endure, albeit with a pragmatic approach towards balancing strategic autonomy with historical ties.