Putin Launches RT India, Deepening Russia’s Media Engagement in South Asia

Russian President Vladimir Putin has officially inaugurated RT India, marking a significant expansion of Russia’s state-funded international broadcaster into one of the world’s largest and most influential media markets. The launch, which took place in New Delhi, underscores Moscow’s strategic intent to strengthen its information presence in South Asia while reinforcing long-standing diplomatic ties with India.

RT India operates as part of the global RT network and is designed to deliver English-language news programming tailored to Indian and regional audiences. The channel is expected to focus on international affairs, Russia–India relations, global geopolitics, and economic developments, offering perspectives that differ from dominant Western narratives. Its establishment reflects Russia’s broader effort to diversify its global communication channels amid growing media restrictions in Europe and North America.

Speaking at the launch ceremony, President Putin emphasized the importance of open dialogue and information exchange between nations. He described RT India as a platform that would allow Indian viewers to better understand modern Russia, its policies, and its role in a rapidly changing world. According to Putin, the channel represents not just a media venture but a symbol of the enduring friendship and mutual respect between Russia and India.

RT Editor-in-Chief Margarita Simonyan also addressed the gathering, highlighting the significance of India as a global power with a rich democratic and media tradition. She noted that the launch of RT India was a natural progression of the network’s global expansion and expressed confidence that the channel would find relevance among audiences seeking diverse viewpoints on international affairs.

The new broadcaster will operate from a modern studio facility in New Delhi, staffed by a team of journalists, producers, and technical experts. RT India plans to air multiple daily news bulletins alongside in-depth discussion programmes, interviews, and analytical segments. The channel’s editorial direction aims to balance coverage of global events with stories that highlight cooperation between India and Russia across political, economic, cultural, and scientific fields.

RT’s move into the Indian market comes at a time when its operations in several Western countries have been curtailed following geopolitical tensions linked to the Russia-Ukraine conflict. While the network has faced bans and broadcasting restrictions in parts of Europe and North America, India has maintained an open media environment that allows foreign broadcasters to operate within the country’s regulatory framework. This contrast has made India a key destination for RT’s renewed international outreach.

Russian officials have framed the launch of RT India as a response to what they describe as a lack of balance in global media narratives. They argue that the dominance of Western outlets often sidelines alternative interpretations of global events. Through RT India, Moscow hopes to present its viewpoints more directly to audiences in the Global South, where interest in multipolar world dynamics continues to grow.

The launch coincided with broader diplomatic engagements between Russia and India. During President Putin’s visit, discussions were held with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on a range of strategic issues, including trade, energy cooperation, defence collaboration, and technological exchange. Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations and expanding economic ties, with an emphasis on long-term partnership rather than short-term geopolitical pressures.

As part of the visit, agreements were also reached to enhance cooperation between Russian and Indian media institutions. These arrangements are intended to promote the exchange of news content, professional training, and joint media projects. Supporters of the initiative argue that such collaboration will contribute to a more diverse international information environment and foster greater mutual understanding between the two nations.

The launch of RT India has generated mixed reactions. Supporters view it as a legitimate addition to India’s pluralistic media space, offering audiences more choices and perspectives. Critics, however, have raised concerns about state-funded media influence and the potential spread of politically motivated narratives. Indian authorities have so far emphasized that all broadcasters operating in the country are subject to existing media laws and oversight mechanisms.

Looking ahead, RT India’s success will depend on its ability to connect with viewers through credible reporting, locally relevant content, and balanced analysis. As global media competition intensifies, the channel’s performance in India will serve as an important test case for Russia’s broader efforts to expand its soft power through international broadcasting.