Putin Launches RT India: ‘Not Anti-Western – Just Not Western’ – Boosting Russia-India Ties Amid Multipolar Push
Putin Unveils RT India: 'Not Anti-Western – Just Not Western' – Russia's Bold Media Move in Delhi
New Delhi, December 5, 2025 – In a symbolic boost to India-Russia ties, President Vladimir Putin personally launched RT India, the Kremlin-backed broadcaster’s newest arm, during his two-day state visit. Dubbed Russia’s “biggest overseas venture,” the channel – broadcasting from a New Delhi studio – promises “objective” coverage of bilateral relations and the duo’s role in a “multipolar world.” With EU bans shadowing RT since 2022, Putin’s nod underscores Moscow’s push for alternative narratives amid global tensions.
The launch, at a five-star hotel’s temporary studio, featured Putin alongside RT editor-in-chief Margarita Simonyan. “RT will showcase contemporary Russia and guide societies on key cooperation areas,” he stated, echoing Indira Gandhi’s words on screen. As trade hits $65B (target $100B by 2030), RT India’s four daily English programs aim to deepen people-to-people links – a soft power play in India’s 1.4B market.
RT India’s Mission: Countering Narratives in a Multipolar Era
RT (Russia Today), launched 2005 as a PR arm to polish Moscow’s image, now eyes India amid Western sanctions post-Ukraine 2022. Tagline? “Not Anti-Western… Just Not Western” – a nod to balanced views on geopolitics, energy, and defense. Programming? Four English bulletins daily, plus specials on Indo-Russian pacts – from S-400 deals to rupee-rouble trade.
Studio setup? NCR-based, 100+ team – first broadcasts from Dec 5. Existing? RT’s in cable packs via Prasar Bharati tie-up; no new license needed, but uplinking/downlinking cleared by MEA/Home/I&B. Manturov (Russian Deputy PM) to Jaishankar: “Deepens cooperation in media space.”
Putin’s Delhi Diary: Launch Amid Summit Spotlight
Putin’s 27-hour whirlwind – first since 2022 Ukraine invasion – blends business and symbolism. Friday highlights:
- Morning: Rashtrapati Bhavan guard of honor.
- 10:30 AM: Rajghat wreath for Gandhi.
- 11:30 AM–2:30 PM: Restricted talks at Hyderabad House – defense (Su-57 jets?), energy (Kudankulam reactors), Arctic collab.
- 3 PM: Joint media statement.
- Afternoon: RT India launch – Putin presides.
Thursday eve? Private Modi dinner at 7 Lok Kalyan Marg – interpreters only. Delegation? 80+ strong, including Sberbank, Rosoboronexport, Rosneft CEOs – rupee infra, arms push.
Indo-Russian Media Bridge: RT’s Strategic Play
RT’s global footprint? 100+ countries, but India marks expansion post-EU bans (2022, Ukraine-linked). Focus? “Truthful info on Russia, world events” – per Putin. Bilateral? Cover S-400 deliveries, BrahMos exports, rupee trade (India’s top Russian oil buyer despite sanctions).
Challenges? Western scrutiny – RT labeled “disinfo” by EU/US. India? Neutral – Prasar Bharati pact ensures reach. Impact? Boosts “multipolar” narrative – India-Russia as counterweights.
Bigger Picture: Putin-Modi Summit – Beyond Media
23rd Annual Summit? Trade surges ($65B 2024, $100B 2030 goal) – energy (uninterrupted oil despite Trump pressure), defense (missiles, jets). MoUs? 28 expected – FTA with EAEU, Arctic pacts.
Putin’s warmth? Modi airport hug – first since 2021. Echoes? Indira Gandhi’s legacy – Putin: “Deep roots, mutual interests.”
Final Take: RT India’s Debut – Russia’s Soft Power Surge in India
Putin’s launch? Strategic stroke – RT India amplifies voices in multipolar chorus. As Modi-Putin ink deals, media bridge builds bonds. Watch: First bulletins shape narratives.
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