Putin’s India visit: Trade in focus as New Delhi looks to reduce deficit; exports of pharma, agriculture likely to get a push

Russian President Vladimir Putin’s visit to India is likely to deliver a significant push to economic cooperation, with government sources indicating that New Delhi is looking to narrow its trade deficit and secure deeper market access for Indian goods. President Putin is arriving with a large business delegation, signalling what officials describe as a strong commercial intent behind the trip. Government sources told TOI that the visit is expected to go a long way in strengthening economic co-operation, with President Putin travelling alongside a large delegation of business representatives. India expects progress in reducing the significant trade deficit with Russia, and multiple avenues are being explored to increase Indian exports. These include pharmaceuticals, automo