Breaking: Modi–Putin hold 2.5-hour private meet as Day 2 of Putin’s India visit unfolds

Russian President Vladimir Putin’s India visit entered its second day with several high-profile moments and major diplomatic signals. According to sources, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Putin held a 2.5-hour long private conversation at the PM residence, where key strategic, defence and trade issues were discussed in depth. The extended one-on-one meeting is being seen as a strong message about the importance of Indo-Russian ties. Putin began the day with a ceremonial welcome at Rashtrapati Bhavan at 11 AM, followed by a visit to Rajghat to pay tribute to Mahatma Gandhi. A notable highlight was PM Modi personally breaking protocol to receive Putin at the airport the previous day — a gesture that instantly caught global attention. Both leaders were also seen travelling together in a Toyota Fortuner, even taking a selfie inside the car, which has gone viral. Throughout the day, discussions are expected on strengthening the eight-decade-old India–Russia partnership, securing trade from external pressures, enhancing small-business cooperation, progressing defence deals including pending S-400 units, and logistics-support agreements enabling joint military operations. Putin’s specially equipped aircraft and high-security convoy also became talking points, reflecting the scale of the visit. With packed engagements ahead, global eyes remain set on Delhi as the two nations deepen their strategic alignment.