India, Russia Seal Five Media Agreements as Putin Unveils RT India
On his visit to New Delhi, Russian President inaugurates the India-centric RT channel amid multiple pacts signed between the two nations on enhancing media cooperation
Strengthening of Media Collaboration Signals New Phase in Bilateral Relations
India and Russia on Friday signed five separate pacts to expand cooperation between their state-linked media organisations. The MoUs involve Prasar Bharati partnering with Russian groups such as Gazprom-Media, National Media Group, BIG ASIA, ANO TV-Novosti and TV BRICS. These tie-ups are aimed at expanding joint broadcasting initiatives, content sharing and information exchange between the two countries.
On his visit, President Vladimir Putin also launched RT India from a temporary studio set up in a New Delhi hotel. The channel is expected to soon shift to a permanent facility and employ more than 100 people, thus making it one of RT’s largest overseas operations. With its India rollout, the network aims at enhancing its presence in the region through a considerable production footprint.
RT India intends to air four daily news programs in English. The channel has framed the launch as a move to further the decades-long partnership between India and Russia, while simultaneously contributing to a more diversified global media landscape. It also marks the network’s plan to expand partnerships with Indian platforms over the coming months.
The signing of new media agreements during the high-profile diplomatic visit showed the interest of both nations in strengthening their communication outreach. According to analysts, this is part of the broader effort to develop alternative global narratives with less reliance on Western-centric media and more inclination toward perspectives aligned with the strategic priorities of India and Russia.
