Putin Hails India’s ‘Miraculous’ Progress & Strong Leadership Of PM Modi

Russian President Vladimir Putin has described India’s economic rise as ‘almost like a miracle’, praising the country for achieving extraordinary progress within just 77 years of independence.

In an exclusive interview with India Today, he said India had ‘come a long way’, emphasising that it has now emerged as the world’s third-largest economy in purchasing power terms.

He added that global attention on his India visit is unsurprising, given New Delhi’s growing influence.

Putin noted that India’s economic momentum, with its 7 per cent annual growth rate, has made it one of the leading global powers.

“India is an enormous country, home to more than a billion people, with a growing economy… The world will be watching our visit,” he said.

Putin reserved strong praise for Prime Minister Narendra Modi, crediting him for India’s economic transformation.

“PM has made this possible. It is something both the Indian nation and PM Modi himself can rightfully claim as an achievement,” he said.

While acknowledging that critics may argue progress could have been faster, he insisted such opinions do not diminish India’s accomplishments.

The Russian President described PM Modi as a reliable and deeply committed leader.

“We have very trustworthy and friendly relations. He is a very reliable person. India got lucky. He lives and breathes India,” Putin said.

He added that PM Modi is dedicated to advancing cooperation between the two countries across key areas, including defence, economic engagement, humanitarian ties and high-technology sectors.

“It is very interesting to meet him,” he remarked.

India’s Role in a Multipolar World

Putin highlighted India’s significant role in shaping a more representative global order, noting that platforms such as BRICS, the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) and the G20 have become increasingly influential.

He said these forums reflect the world’s shift towards multipolarity and stressed that Russia has ‘no objections’ to strengthening its role within such groupings.

When asked about the possibility of Russia returning to the G8, Putin responded with an unequivocal ‘no’, arguing that the grouping no longer reflects current economic realities.

He questioned the continued relevance of the G7, pointing out that several of its member states are facing economic stagnation or decline.

Putin cited Germany’s recession for a third consecutive year and France being ‘on the brink of recession’ as signs of deeper structural weaknesses.

He attributed Europe’s economic troubles to ‘erroneous policy’ decisions taken by its governments. In contrast, he argued, India and other emerging economies are expanding rapidly and reshaping global power distribution.

Putin’s two-day state visit to India—his first since 2021—coincides with the 25th anniversary of the India–Russia strategic partnership.

Several key agreements are expected at the summit, reflecting the continued depth of bilateral cooperation and India’s rising global stature.

Also Read: India–Russia Friendship Has Stood The Test Of Time, Says PM Modi