Indo - Ussr Relations

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DAMODARAM SANJIVAYYA NATIONAL LAW UNIVERSITY

VISAKHAPATNAM, A.P., INDIA

PROJECT TITLE:

INDO-USSR RELATIONS

NAME OF THE FACULTY:

PROFF: NIRMALA DEVI

NAME OF THE STUDENT:

KRANTHI KIRAN.T

ROLL NO: 18LLB127

SEC: B

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ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

I would sincerely like to put forward my heartfelt appreciation to our respected Political
science professor, Prof. Nirmala Devi for giving me a golden opportunity to take up this
project regarding ―“ INDO- USSR RELATIONS ”I have tried my best to collect
information about the project in various possible ways to depict clear picture about the given
project topic.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Acknowledgement………………………………………………2

Table of Contents………………………………………………..3

Abstract………………………………………………………….4

Synopsis…………………………………………………………5

Introduction…………………………………………………….6

Indian- Soviet Relations from 1947-53………………………..6-7

Indo- Soviet Relations from 1954-64…………………………..7-9

Indo-Soviet Relations from 1965-77…………………………..9-12

Indo-Soviet Relations during Janata Government (1977-79)..12--13

Indo-Soviet Relations in 1980’s………………………………..13-14

Indo- Soviet Relations in 1990’s……………………………….14-16

Indo-Soviet Relations in 21st Century…………………………16-19

Indo-Soviet Treaty………………………………………………..19-20

Main provisions of the Treaty……………………………………21

Conclusion…………………………………………………………..22

Bibliography…………………………………………………………23

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ABSTRACT

Title: INDO-USSR relations during the cold war

India’s attitude towards the USSR has been derived from its foreign policy objectives. In
understanding and evaluating this attitude, it is therefore, indispensable to keep in view two
important considerations. First the assumption, motivations, style basic goals and the
principles of India’s foreign policy which governed her relations with other states in general,
second the specific goals which India sought to achieve in her relations with the USSR. In
this study an attempt has been made to analyze various issues and the support of both the
countries for each other.

In the contemporary post-cold war global order, India and the Russian federation are two
significant powers in early IV'' century that have endeavored to shape and influence the
onward march of world history. Under the spell of full-blooded 'economic globalization, both
Russia and India are presently engaged in redefining and strengthening bilateral economic
cooperation between, these two political societies, comprising "Bharat" and the Russian
federation. This dimension is of particular significance in terms of its lasting impact in
deepening the bilateral diplomatic ties in the present global order and its consequences for
shaping the post-cold war global politics. With the end of the cold war and the dissolution of
the Soviet Union, the ideological basis of the erstwhile Indo-Soviet economic relations has
ceased to be a principal factor in shaping the political economy of the Indo-Russian
diplomatic ties. The strategic significance of India's friendship with the Soviet Union in the
cold war era is no longer crucial in the Russian strategic. Instead, it is proposed here that
certain political objectives and definable economic interests between the 107 two powers
would contribute significantly to strengthening Indo-Russian diplomatic relations in early 2P'
century. The emergence of fifteen independent states as a result of the collapse of the Soviet
Union in 1991, has offered new challenges and opportunities for India to broaden its bilateral
and multilateral relationship with Russia and its near abroad states. Since the Soviet period,
India has close strategic cooperation with Russia and each of these states of Russia's near
abroad. Though India's strategic partnership with the Erstwhile Soviet Union was indeed an
advantage for developing relationship with the post-Soviet newly independent states,

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however in the changed situation there was a need to shift its focus, from the larger canvas of
the former Soviet Union to a smaller canvas to renew and build close strategic ties with each
of these fifteen new Republics Russia's near abroad.

SYNOPSIS

Title of the Project: INDO-USSR RELATIONS

Objective of the Study:

Through our study we get to know about the relations between India and USSR during the
cold war and in past few years and in present situations.

Research Methodology:

The research is doctrinal type. In this method of study the researcher does not need any field
work. It can be done simply by referring books, journals and articles. It is also called as
theoretical way or methodology of study.

Literature Review:

For gathering information regarding my project, I have received many books, journals,
magazines and other sources like internet.

Identification of Variables:

Here in this study, we identify two different variables i.e, independent and dependent
variables

Dependent variable- Relations between India and USSR

Independent variable- Problems and situations that were present during these relations
between India and USSR.

Collection of Data:

The data regarding Indo-USSR Relations can be collected from books, journals, articles, and
from the authentic online sources of government organization.

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Conclusion:

Relations with Russia are a key pillar of India's foreign policy, and Russia is a long-time
partner of India's test. The two countries signed the "Declaration on India-Russia Strategic
Partnership" in October 2000

Traditionally, the Indo-Russian strategic partnership is based on five main components:


politics, defense, civilian nuclear, counterterrorism cooperation and space.

Introduction:

India was quite favorably disposed towards Union of Soviet Socialist 1 Republics (USSR)
before attainment of independence. Pandit Jawarharlal Nehru in particular was a strong
supporter of the Russian Revolution of 1917 and greatly admired the support extended by the
Soviet Union to the Indian freedom movement. He naturally showed eagerness to be friend
Soviet Union, even though he had certain reservations about the suitability of communism for
India. In fact he saw no reason why independent India should inherit Britain’s suspicion of
Soviet Union. India’s keenness to establish friendly relations with Soviet Union is evident
from the fact that even before actual attainment of independence on 15th august 1947; India
established diplomatic relations with Soviet Union.

However, Soviet Union did not show the same reciprocity and failed to fully appreciate the
aspirations and policies of India. In fact Stalin continued to hold that India had not achieved
genuine independent and still continued to be dependent on the British imperialists because
Indian economy was under the control of British capital. India’s membership of the Common
wealth further confirmed this impression. Soviet Union also continued to suspect India’s
policies and motivations in international affairs.

Indian- Soviet Relations from 1947-53:

Despite establishment of diplomatic relations with Soviet Union, the Indo- Soviet relations
could not develop along friendly lines on account of certain psychological barriers between
the peoples of two countries. As K.P.S Menon has observed “some Indians still suffered from
the fear, relic of British days, the USSR was out to turn the world red by hook or by crook;

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Dr. B.V.V. Bala Krishna& Dr. S. Subba Rao, Foreign Policy of India, pg. no. 223-224.

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and many Russians thought that India was nominally free, she was economically bound hand
and foot to the chariot of western imperialism. “ No wonder, in the initial years after India’s
independence the relations between the two countries could not develop along cordial lines
and certain tensions appeared. India’s2 membership of common wealth, opposition to
communist revolution in Malaya, support to Greece and decision to adopt policy of non-
alignment was interpreted by the soviet union to support India on the question of Kashmir in
January 1948 and approval of the Indonesian Dutch agreement of December, 1949
contributed to further differences between the two and prevented development of friendly and
co-operative relations

The above account should not give the impression that no positive development took place in
the relations between two countries between 1947 and 1953. Certain bold decisions of India
in the foreign sphere were appreciated by the soviet leaders. These included recognition of
the People’s Republic of China despite the opposite stand of America on this question?
Refusal of India to join and accept the US sponsored treaty with japan in 1951; and vocal
anti-colonial stand of India in the United Nations. Above all, India’s opposition to the US
sponsored resolutions describing China as an aggressor in Kore and its call on the United
Nations forces not to cross the 38th parallel was also greatly appreciated by the soviet leaders.
The changed attitude of the Soviet Union towards India was evident from the fact that in
1950-51. Soviet Union sent five ship loads of food grains to help India tide over its problem
of food shortage. In 1952 when Graham Report on the Kashmir issue was presented in the
UN Security Council, Soviet representative criticized the report and alleged that the Kashmir
problem was not being solved because of the interference of Anglo- American bloc which
was supporting the imperialistic policy of Pakistan. Soviet Union opposed the idea of sending
foreign forces to Kashmir and thus adopted clear friendly postures towards India.

Indo- Soviet Relations from 1954-64:

After the death of Stalin in March 1953 and emergence of collective leadership a perceptible
change in the Soviet attitude towards the world as well as India could be noted. It started
appreciating the non-aligned status of India and its role towards the promotion of peace. In
this regard the Soviet Premier Malenkov said on 8 August 1953, “Of great importance for the
promotion of peace in the East is the attitude of so big country as India. India 3 has made a

2
Dr. B.V.V. Bala Krishna& Dr. S. Subba Rao, Foreign Policy Of India, pg. no. 224.
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Dr. B.V.V. Bala Krishna& Dr. S. Subba Rao, Foreign Policy Of India, pg. no. 225-226.

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substantial contribution to the efforts of the peace-keeping countries to stop the Korean war.
Our relations with India are growing firmer and cultural and economic intercourses with her
are becoming wider. We hope that relations between India and the Soviet Union will become
stronger and develop in a spirit of friendly cooperation.

India also took full advantage of the changed attitude of Soviet Union and tried to cultivate
more intimate relations with Soviet Union. Several Indian delegations visited Soviet Union
and were greatly impressed with the warmthness shown by soviet authorities. In December
1953 India Jawaharlal Nehru paid a visit to Soviet Union where he received unprecedented
welcome. At the end of this visit the Prime Ministers of two countries issued a joint
declaration in which they expressed faith in the principles of panchsheel for conduct of
international relations in general and between the two countries in particular. The two prime
ministers expressed profound faith in the principle of co- existence and asserted that states of
different social structure can exist side by side in peace and conduct and work for the
common good. In the interest of mutual benefits to India and Soviet Union, they sought to
promote and strengthen relations between two countries in the economic and cultural fields as
well as in that of scientific and research.

In the meanwhile the opposition of India to the military pacts like SEATO and Baghdad pact
was greatly appreciated by the soviet leaders as well as the people. As a result Soviet Union
indicated its willingness to promote closer relations with India. Thereafter4 Soviet Union
started providing India more economic aid and supported India or various political issues so
that she could resist the western pressure. In February 1955 India signed an agreement with
soviet union for setting up of a modern integrated iron and steel plant at Bhilai. Soviet Union
apart from providing machinery, technical know-how, offered payment terms more favorable
than offered by the western countries.

Towards the close of 1955 soviet prime minster Bulganin and first secretary of the soviet
communist party Khuschev paid a visit to India, and were given warm reception by the
people of India. The identical interests of the two countries were emphasized by Bulganin in
his speech before the joint session of Indian Parliament. He said, “in the long run, we are
striving for the same objectives; ro lessen international tension, to preserve and strengthen
peace, to prevent war, and to save mankind from its horrors; to guarantee the undisturbed
work and joys of peaceful life for the people throughout the world. “During the visit the

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Dr. B.V.V. Bala Krishna& Dr. S. Subba Rao, Foreign Policy Of India, pg. no 226.

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soviet leaders expressed outright support to Indian stand in Goa and Kashmir. The exchange
of visits by the leaders of two countries paved the way for more intimate and co-operative
relation between the two countries.

In 1956 on the question of Suez canal the two countries took an identical stand and
condemned Israeli-Anglo French aggression against Egypt, However the same year some
misunderstanding was created between the two countries on account of Indian sand on the
issue of Hungary. India demanded that the people of Hungary should be allowed to determine
their future according to their own wishes and the foreign forces should be withdrawn. This
stand of India was greatly resented by Soviet Union and created a sort of rift between the two
countries. Soviet Union also felt unhappy over Indian decision to send troops to Congo in
1960 and Indian criticism of resumption of nuclear tests by Soviet Union. All this generated
tension in India- Soviet relations.

However this tension only temporary and soon the relations between the two showed an
improvement. Soviet Union not only agreed to provide assistance for the third five year plan
of India, but also agreed to supply oil to India at cheaper rates. Soviet union also extended
support to India on the question of Goa and vetoed a resolution on Kashmir.

In 1962 during the Sino-Indian Conflict Soviet Union extended support to India and even
offered to cooperate with India in the manufacture of MIG Fighter planes of in India. Soviet
Union was highly critical of Chinese policy towards India because it feared this would push
India towards America. To check such probabilities Soviet Union not only criticized china
but also tried to increase co-operation with India by signing cultural agreement as well as
agreement for the supply of arms and military hardware to India. Soviet Union also stepped
up economic aid to India. In short between 1955 and 1965 economic and defense cooperation
between India and Soviet Union considerably increased.

Indo-Soviet Relations from 1965-77:

When the Indo-Pak war broke out I 1965, Soviet Union adopted quite a cautious approach
and impressed the need of finding a peaceful settlement of the dispute. It 5 also issued warning
to China to keep off from the conflict to prevent further escalation of hostilities. On 20
September 1965 Soviet Union offered its good offices to end hostilities between India and
Pakistan and ultimately succeeded in bringing the two countries on negotiating table at

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Dr. B.V.V. Bala Krishna& Dr. S. Subba Rao, Foreign Policy Of India, pg. no 226-228.

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“Tashkent in January 1966. These efforts culminated in the Tashkent Agreement on 10
January 1966.

In the post- Tashkent period India’s relations with Soviet Union underwent a change because
the Soviet Union decided to adopt a policy based on support to Indian interests along with
new ties with Pakistan. The improvement of soviet relations with Pakistan during 1967-68
was not viewed favorably by the Indian people. Despite this Indo-Soviet relations continued
to grow in the economic and military fields. Soviet Union continued to provide assistance to
India for the long-term economic development plans of India. It also continued supply of
tanks, bombers; aircrafts, artillery and radar equipment’s to India, However, the warmthness
and friendliness which characterized the relations between the two countries in the mid-fifties
disappeared.

In 1969 on account of certain changes in the foreign policy of India and Soviet Union an
effort was made to revive the spirit of cordiality and co-operation which once characterized
Indo- Soviet relations. Disillusioned with Pakistan the soviet leadership came to realize the
importance of intimate relations with India. Kosygin openly declared that Soviet Union
wanted to see a strong, prosperous, non-aligned India playing its natural role in this region
and beyond. He offered to India every possible assistance for this purpose. India also sought
soviet co-operation to deal with the crisis situation in South Asia in the wake of disturbances
in East Pakistan. This led to the conclusion of Treaty of Peace, Friendship and cooperation
between India and Soviet Union in august 1971. Under this treaty India and soviet union
agreed to respect each other’s foreign policy and to work for peace in Asia as well as word.
The leaders of the two countries agreed to hold regular contacts and discuss international
problems and to cooperate with each other in resolving the various international issues. They
also agreed to work for the elimination and colonialism and racialism. Above all, the two
countries agreed to hold reciprocal consultations in case either of the party was subjected to
an attack. This provision of the treaty assured India soviet support I case of Sino- American
intervention in the conflict between India and Pakistan.

The6 conclusion of Treaty of Friendship with Soviet Union in 1971 marked a change in the
foreign policy of India. This was the first political treaty concluded by India with any big
power. An allegation was made in certain quarters that the treaty violated the principle of
non-alignment which India had been professing for all those years. However, the Indian

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Dr. B.V.V. Bala Krishna& Dr. S. Subba Rao, Foreign Policy Of India, pg. no 227.

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leaders took the stand that the treaty did not after the non-aligned character of India’s foreign
policy. The treaty proved quite beneficial to India during the Indo-Pak conflict of December
1971. Soon after outbreak of hostilities between India and Pakistan, the soviet union made an
appeal for speediest ending of the bloodshed and for a political settlement in East-Pakistan on
the basis of respect for the lawful rights and interests of its people. It warned the governments
of all countries to refrain from involving themselves in the conflict which could further
aggravate the situation. It may be noted that the soviet stand was in sharp contrast with the
stand taken by united states and china who backed Pakistan. Further, after united states
announced its decision to send a task force of its seventh fleet, headed by the nuclear
powered aircraft carrier, USS Enterprise from the Gulf on Tonkin to Bay of Bengal, the
soviet Union moved its fleet in the Indian Ocean Area. The decision of Soviet Union acted as
an effective deterrent to US designs. As India had no intention to claim any territory of
Pakistan concluded Simla Agreement in July 1972 and pledged to resolve their outstanding
differences through bilateral negotiations.

In the subsequent years the leaders of two countries exchanged visits and made serious bid to
promote greater co-operation in various fields. In 1971 two countries agreed for stepping up
co-operation in the exploration and use of outer space for peaceful purposes. It was under this
agreement that the first Indian satellite Aryabhatta was launched from soviet soil on 19 April
1975. The two countries decided in 1971 set up Indo Soviet Joint Commission for economic,
scientific and technological co-operation. Soviet Union showed complete understanding of
India’s of India’s nuclear policy and refused to condemn the Indian Peaceful Nuclear
Explosion of 1974 and did not raise any voice against Indian refusal to sign N.P.T. in 1973
India and soviet union signed a 15 year economic and trade agreement under which the two
countries agreed to extend co-operation in the field of industry and agriculture. Soviet union
also agreed to provide loan to India for Mathura Oil Refinery and underground Railway at
Calcutta. By another agreement the two countries agreed to establish joint industrial ventures
in the other countries, specially in the African and Asian countries. In7 December 1976 Soviet
Union showed great gesture of friendship towards India by agreeing to supply 5.5 million
tons of crude oil over a period of four years against rupee payments. This provided big relief
to India at a time when the OPEC countries has announced big price hike of oil.

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Dr. B.V.V. Bala Krishna& Dr. S. Subba Rao, Foreign Policy Of India, pg. no 228.

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Despite intimate economic relations between India and Soviet Union, certain irritants
appeared in their relations. India was not quite happy with soviet decision to provide arms
and military hardware to Pakistan. Similarly India lodged strong protest with Soviet Union in
1970 for publication of certain maps showing parts of NEFA and Aksai China areas of India
as parts of China. Differences also persisted between India and Soviet union over the fixation
of exchange rates for soviet Roubles. Despite these irritants the relations between two
countries continued to be cordial and warm.

Indo-Soviet Relations during Janata Government (1977-79):

With the assumption of power by the Janata government in India, it was feared that the
intimate relations between India and Soviet Union would suffer a setback. The main basis for
this fear was that during the period of emergency from 1975-77, the soviet leaders not only
supported the emergency imposed by Mrs. Gandhi, but also described Janasta party as a
rightist reactionary party. Further during the election held in the wake of emergency in India,
the Janata party had openly declared I its election manifesto, that if it was voted to the power,
it would follow a genuine non-aligned policy and end the special tilt towards soviet union,
however, the above fears proved ill- founded and the relations between India and Soviet
union continued to be as cordial as before during the janata rule. In fact within five weeks of
the election results in India, the soviet foreign minister paid a visit to India with a view to
mend fences with the government. He8 held discussions with India’s Foreign Affairs
Minister. At the end of this visit he reaffirmed his faith in the spirit of 1971 treaty. On the
other than the janata government also felt the need of closer co-operation with soviet union
on account of growing Beijing- Pindi axis in Asia; growing relations between china and USA
;growing nuclear power of china? Continued supply of us arms to Pakistan; and the
dependence of India on Soviet Union for the supply of arms and military hardware. In
October 1977 Prime Minister Moraji desai paid a visit to Moscow. At the end of this visit, a
joint declaration was issued in which the two countries affirmed their pledge to maintain co-
operative and friendly relations. In short, it can be said that by the end of 1977 India and
Soviet Union adjusted their relations according to new realities and environment. However,
on some of the international issues like Afghanistan and Cambodia the two countries took
opposite stands, India did not endorse the pro- Vietnamese soviet stand over Cambodia and
refused to recognize the new regime in Cambodia. Similarly, when soviet union intervened in

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Dr. B.V.V. Bala Krishna& Dr. S. Subba Rao, Foreign Policy Of India, pg. no 228-229.

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Afghanistan, Indian ambassador at United Nations condemned the soviet action. All this
produced some strains in the relations of the two countries.

Indo-Soviet Relations in 1980’s:

With the return of Mrs. Indira Gandhi to power in January 1980 hopes wont high in soviet
union that once again relations between India and soviet union would develop along friendly
and cooperative lines. These hopes proved true and India changed its stand on Afghanistan
from total opposition to soviet action, to restrained criticism of Soviet Union. In February
1980 soviet foreign minister paid a visit to India and made a bid to secure Indian support for
soviet action in Afghanistan. However, India refused to oblige him. But the two countries
agreed not to play up their differences on Afghanistan and work for development of co-
operative bilateral relations.

During the next few years the leaders of two countries exchanged visits which contributed the
development of closer relations between two countries. The two countries concluded several
bilateral agreements for the promotion of trade, cultural, scientific, and educational
exchanges.

Rajiv Gandhi, who formed Government after the assassination of Mrs. Indira Gandhi,
continued the policy of development of close and cooperative relations with soviet union. In
may 1985 Rajiv Gandhi paid a visit to Moscow where he was accorded warm welcome by the
soviet leaders. During this visit he signed two important bilateral agreements on economic
cooperation. By9 the first agreement Soviet Union agreed to provide India a credit of one
million roubles. The repayment of the loan as well as the interest was to be paid in Indian
Rupees. Further the amounts thus repaid were to be utilized by the Soviet Union for
purchasing Indian goods.

By the second agreement, Soviet Union agreed to offer greater co-operation in important
sectors of Indian economy. Some of the important sectors to be covered by this agreement
were power, petroleum, steel, mining, oil drilling, and coal, machine-building, ferrous and
non-ferrous metallurgy. The two countries also agreed to cooperate in construction and
industrial projects in third world countries.

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Dr. B.V.V. Bala Krishna& Dr. S. Subba Rao, Foreign Policy Of India, pg. no 229-230.

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The Indo-Soviet relations got further cemented due to soviet assurance to supply MIG 29
fighter\ interceptor aircraft to India. Soviet Union also offered to supply to India military
transport aircrafts equipped with airborne warning and control system to counter the proposed
supply of US AWACS system to Pakistan. However, India did not accept the offer because it
would have jeopardized the development of the indigenous airborne surveillance system. In
the subsequent years the Indo-soviet relations grew more intimate. There was enormous
increase in their trade and economic cooperation. The special relations between the two
countries were affirmed by President Mikhaii Gorbachev during his visit to India in
November 1988. During this visit he committed a massive Rs.6000 crores credit for
development projects, including power, to India. The two countries also concluded
agreements for avoidance of double taxation on income; joint exploration of outer space for
peaceful purposes. The two countries also entered into a protocol for further strengthening the
economic and technological cooperation in the power sector. In 1989 Rajiv Gandhi paid a
visit to Soviet Union. During this visit the two countries reached an agreement for putting up
a 200 MW nuclear power plant in India and Soviet Union provided 2.3 billion rouble credit
for the same. The two countries also agreed to explore the possibilities of increasing export of
consumer goods to Soviet Union.

Indo- Soviet Relations in 1990’s:

The formation of National Front Government under V.P. Singh in India in November 1989
gave rise to speculation in certain quarters that India’s relations with Soviet Union would
suffer a setback. However, the National Government struck to the traditional policy of non-
alignment and tried to maintain best of relations with Soviet Union. Its efforts to improve
relations with the United States did not adversely affect India’s relations with Soviet Union in
view of the prevailing spirit of approachment between the two super powers. In 1990 Prime
Minister V.P Singh, along with a high level delegation paid a visit to Moscow. During thus
visit the leaders of two countries exchanged views on global developments and affirmed their
resolve to maintain and strengthen Indo-Soviet friendship and cooperation. The two leaders
issued a joint statement in which they are reaffirmed their mutual commitment to build a
nuclear weapon- free non- violent world. Soviet leaders expressed concern over growing
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Indo-Pak tension due to Pakistan’s meddling in Punjab and Kashmir, and urged that the
issues should be peacefully resolved in accordance with the Simla agreement. The leaders of

10
Dr. B.V.V. Bala Krishna& Dr. S. Subba Rao, Foreign Policy Of India, pg. no 230-231.

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two countries affirmed their commitment towards a more equitable world order and gave call
for global efforts for securing environmental protection. East-West and North-South
cooperation.

In 1991 the two countries decided to extend the Indo-Soviet treaty for peace and friendship
and cooperation concluded in 1971 for another two decades. A vital clause of this treaty,
stipulated that each country would abstain from assisting any third country that engages in
armed conflict with either signatory. It also provided for military assistance in case of an
armed attack by a third party. These provisions of the treaty virtually brought India under the
protective nuclear umbrella of Soviet Union. However, within few months of the renewal of
this treaty, Soviet Union faced disintegration and the treaty ceased to have any, practical
utility.

The common wealth of Independent States, which came into being after the disintegration of
USSR, did not accord privileged position to India which it enjoyed earlier. However, it
clarified that all the commitments made to India with regard to supply of military hardware
spares of various types by the earlier government would be honored. This provided great
relief to India. India’s relations with Russia commonwealth of Independent states showed an
improvement following president yeltsin’s visit to India in January 1993, during this visit the
two countries resolved the long standing issue of Rupee- Rouble exchange rate and signed a
new treaty of friendship and co-operation which pledged co-operation in the economic,
political, and other fields. However, the new treaty did not contain the strategic security
clause under which the erstwhile Soviet Union and India were committed to each other’s
defense. The two countries also reached an agreement for continued supply of spares for
Indian defense equipment’s and promotion of bilateral trade. Russia again offered full
support to India on the Kashmir issue and asserted that Kashmir was an integral part of India.
Further Russia ruled out third party intervention in bilateral matters and agreed to implement
the agreement on space- cooperation, including supply of cryogenic engines.

India and Russia also agreed to co-operate in the field of defense and agreed to hold
consultations for setting up joint ventures for the production of spares and defense
equipment’s that were either being phased out or were likely to be phased out in near future.
All this11 clearly indicates that the relations between India and Russia once again began to be
regulated on the basis of their mutual interests rather than ideological considerations. In July

11
Dr. B.V.V. Bala Krishna& Dr. S. Subba Rao, Foreign Policy Of India, pg. no 231.

15
1994 prime minister Narasimha Rao paid a visit to Russia. This visit further cemented the
relations between the two countries. During this visit the leaders of two countries concluded
agreements on various subjects ranging from defense, science and technology, environment,
etc. the two countries also agreed to take necessary measures to remove the bottlenecks in the
bilateral trade and co-operate in upgrading MIG fighters. On the economic front they agreed
to create a joint bank in Russia and thus sought to overcome a major impediment in the
growth of economic cooperation between the two countries. Further, Russia agreed to provide
India a credit of 830 million for the purchase of arms.

In December 1994 the Russian Prime Minister paid a visit to India. During this visit the
signed eight agreements with India, which clearly indicated that Russia was keen on place
Indo-Russian relations on the track. These agreements related to protection of investments
long-term programme of military and technical cooperation; cooperation on the exploration
and use of outer space for peaceful purposes; broadening of the scope of Indo- Russian joint
commission; multi-entry visas for diplomatic and official passport holders, and between New
Delhi and Moscow for regular political consultations. Thus, despite non-existence of any
special relationship between India and Russia, Moscow attached great importance to India.

In October 1996 India and Russia signed agreements to foster closer defense ties. They
agreed to exchange information on military interests and hold joint military exercises. In
march 1997 Indian Prime Minister along with three of his cabinet ministers paid a visit to
Moscow. During this visit the two countries signed agreements relating to avoidance of
double taxation, extradition, mutual assistance in customs matter, co-operation in physical
culture and sports etc. The two countries also signed a defense agreement under which Russia
agreed to help India in developing a state of the art integrated air defense system.

Indo-Soviet Relations in 21st Century:

In April 2000 Russian ratified the Extradition treaty which aimed at curbing terrorism; In
June 2000 Indian External Affairs Minister visited Moscow and held a series of high-level
meetings to forge a strategies partnership. India expressed support for Moscow’s stand in
opposing US plans to build National Missile Defense in contravention of the Anti-Ballistic
Missile Treaty; Another12 development which greatly pleased Russia took place in July 2000
when India released the five pilots of Russian origin, sentenced to life for their involvement

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Dr. B.V.V. Bala Krishna& Dr. S. Subba Rao, Foreign Policy Of India, pg. no 232-233.

16
in the purulia arms drop case, Earlier president Narayan remitted their sentence with
intimidate effect. This humane decision of India was greatly appreciated by the Russian
President Putin.

In October, 2000 President Madmir Putin paid a visit to India to break new grounds in
bilateral ties, During his visit the two countries signed four key defence agreements totaling
three billion dollars. The two also reached an agreement on the lease of four Tu-22 Backfire
Bombers, a maritime reconnaissance and strike aircraft fitting with 300 km range air-to
ground missiles capable of flying at three times the speed of sound. Russia agreed to provide
two additional cryogenic engines that will power the Indian GSLV rocket.

President Putin and Prime Minister Vajpayee signed a “declaration on strategic partnership”
under which the two countries agreed to consult each other to neutralize any threat to the
other side. The declaration elaborated on the need for multipolar world order and
democratization of international relations, global elimination of nuclear weapons, peaceful
settlement of disputes cooperation in the peaceful use of nuclear energy and fight against
terrorism, separatism, organized crime and drug trafficking. The two countries also agreed to
cooperation on Afghanistan. Putin shared India’s concern over growing terrorist violence in
Kashmir and supported India’s efforts to fight terrorism at regional as well as international
levels.

The other points highlighted by the declaration on strategic partnership between India and
Russia include annual summit level meetings and joint initiative on key international and
regional issues, non- participation in any military-political or other alliance or armed conflict
directed against the other side; deeper cooperation in the field of metallurgy, fuel and energy,
information technology and communications; etc.; It may be observed that the strategic
partnership is not directed against any other state or group of states. Within the frame work of
their strategic partnership two countries signed three key defence deals worth over $ 3 billion.
By another agreement they agreed to establish an interministerial commission on military-
technical co-operation. Both the sides felt satisfied over the establishment of a strategic
partnership which opened up several visit’s co-operation between the two countries.

13
In February 2001 the Russian Deputy Prime Minister visited India and signed a deal for
supply and manufacture of the T-90S Main Battle Tanks CMBT. The deal worth $ 650

13
Dr. B.V.V. Bala Krishna& Dr. S. Subba Rao, Foreign Policy Of India, pg. no 233.

17
million has been described as ‘the deal of the century’. Under this deal three agreements were
concluded. Under the first agreement India would immediately purchase 124 MBTs. The
remaining 186 tanks would be bought in semi and completely knocked down condition. The
second agreement entails transfer of technology and manufacture of BMTs in India. The third
agreement envisages manufacture of the weapons systems of these tanks in India. The
agreements also cover transfer of technology for further manufacture of these missiles.

The two countries also signed an agreement for promotion of aviation safety as a precursor to
joint venture partnership in the manufacture of 16-seater and 100-seater passenger aircraft.

Another notable agreement was signed by ONGC- Videsh Ltd; (OVL) and Russian sate
owned company Rosneft in February 2001, under which OVL acquired a 20 per cent stake
from Rosneft in the Sakhalin-1 off shore project in the Russian Far East. Under this
agreement OVLL would invest between $ 1.5 and $ 2 billion into the project over next five
years before oil and gas production commences in 2005-6. This would be India’s biggest
single- project investment abroad.

A further step in development of closer defense relations between India and Russia was taken
in june 2001 when Russia offered to build a missile defense system for India as a part of a
quantum leap in military cooperation. It may be observed that Russia made this offer to
convince India to withdraw its support to the US- proposed missile defence system which
according to Russian would rupture arms control and imperial global security. Russia also
offered joint production of a fifth generation fighter lane to further enhance the operational
capabilities of the air forces of the two countries. The two countries also agreed on intensive
joint research and development programmes in several high-tech areas.

In November 2001 India Prime minister paid a visit to Moscow and held meeting with
president Putin. At the end of the meeting they issued a strong joint statement against
terrorism and pledged to step-up Indo-Russian military cooperation. Several agreements were
signed during the visit. MoU was signed for the implementation of the Russian designed
Kudankulam Nuclear project in Tamilnadu. For the implementation of this 2000 MW Power
project, Russia agreed to provide soft credit of Rs 6416 crores to part finance the project. The
Russian assistance would be against the supply of crucial equipment including reactors,
turbines and fuel. Another MoU was signed to boost Indian studies in Russia.

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The foreign Minister of Russian Federation paid a visit to India in February 2002 and held
talks on wife-ranging bilateral, regional and international issues, with his Indian counterpart.
At the end of the meeting they issued a joint statement in which they reminded president
Musharraf of his commitment against terrorism and urged him to stop infiltration of terrorists
in India and to put an end to the growing terrorist violence in Jammu and Kashmir as well as
other parts of India.

Indo-Soviet Treaty:

The year 1971 can be described as the golden year of Indo-Soviet14 friendship because in this
year the strength of friendship and co-operation between the two countries qualitatively
developed and resulted into the 20th year. Treaty of Peace, Friendship and cooperation that
was signed on August 9, 1971 between the two countries. Since 1955, Indo-Soviet friendly
cooperation had been registering steady but definite progress, and towards the end of sixties
there took place several events that compelled India and Soviet Union to give a legal and
political basis to their friendly relations and cooperation. The negotiations for the treaty were
initiated in 1669; this fact was revealed by a S. Swaran Singh after the signing of the treaty.
Abound 1969; the Sino-Soviet border dispute still remained unresolved. The growing power
of China and its hostile attitude towards India and Soviet Union made Indian and soviet
leader’s conscious of the Chinese menace. The Beijing-Pindi axis in south Asia had already
appeared on the scene and it had become a source of disturbance for both India and Soviet
Union. A new dimension to power structure in South Asia came when Washington decided to
mend its fences with Beijing it was seen as an American attempt to increase its role in Asia. It
led to increased Soviet apprehensions about the India.

India too felt alarmed at the growing Beijing- Pindi and Washington- Pindi axes. The
American decision to build her relations with China further involved dangers for the Indian
security. In the past, both China and America had individually used Pakistan as a counter
veiting pressure against India. It was therefore, naturally felt by India that the emergence of
Washington- Beijing détente through the good offices of Islamabad would further create
difficulties for India.

Moreover, the emergence of a big crisis in Bangladesh in 1970 led to an increased pressure
on the security and interests of India. The presence of Bangladesh refugees in India not only

14
Meena B. Rao, India’s Foreign Policy, pg. no 118-119.

19
increased the economic burden but also posed a threat to the security of India. India found
herself faced with a big economic problem and security problem. She wanted to get rid of the
burdens and approached many nations for help and support. However, her efforts to enlist
their support did not yield any result. Except Russia no other major and powerful nation came
out to support India view point or to share the burden. When the situation in Bangladesh
became highly surcharged and tense, and along with it the American and Chinese total
support for Pakistan became evident, India felt that her security needs demanded an assured
and full support from Soviet Union. The pro- Pakistani policies of America and China made
it necessary for India to strengthen her relations with the soviet union, By this time soviet
union too had come to realize the need for securing its interests in Asia by developing a
stronger friendship and co-operation with India. Thus, in early 70’s the Indo- Soviet interests
fully converged on the issue of the security and stability of peace in South Asia. The
discussions between the leaders of both the countries led to conclusion that there was strong
need for cementing the Indo-Soviet friendship and cooperation in the interest of peace and
stability. To fulfill the need, India and Soviet Union decided to sign the Treaty of peace,
friendship and cooperation.

Main provisions of the Treaty:

The treaty was drafted15 during the course of negotiations which were conducted between the
diplomats and statesmen of the two countries. It was signed on 9th August, 1971, after having
been ratified by the parliament of both the countries. The treaty was named as the indo-soviet
treaty of peace friendship and co-operation.

The treaty has a preamble and 12 articles. In the preamble it is stated that both the countries
are desirous of expanding and consolidate the existing rotations of sincere friendship between
them. They believe that the further development of friendship and co-operation meets the
basic national interests of both the states. In the preamble, both the countries reaffirm their
faith in “the principles of peaceful co-existence and co-operation between the states with
different political and social system” and in their “determination to abide by the purposes and
principles of United Nations charter”.

Article I declares that “enduring peace and friendship shall prevail between the two countries
and their peoples. Each party shall respect the independence, sovereignty and territorial

15
Meena B. Rao, India’s Foreign Policy, pg. no 120-121.

20
integrity of the other and refrain from interfering in the internal affairs of the other. The
parties shall continue to develop and consolidate the relations of sincere friendship, good
neighbourness and comprehensive co-operation exalting between them on the basis of the
aforesaid principles as well as those equality and mutual benefits.

Article II affirms the desire of the two parties to contribute in every possible way to ensure
peace and security of people and the both the parties are determined to continue their efforts
to preserve the strengthen peace in Asia and throughout the world, to halt the arms race and
to achieve general and complete disarmament. Under Art.II, both the states condemn
colonialism and racialism in all forms and manifestation, it is stated in Art IV that India
respects peace-loving policy of soviet union which is aimed at strengthening friendship and
cooperation with all nations. Likewise, it is declared that the soviet union resects Indians
policy of non- alignment and reaffirms that this policy constitutes and important factor in the
maintenance of universal peace and international security and in the lessening of tension in
the world. Article V provides that the two countries will maintain regular contacts with each
other on major international problems affecting the interests of the both parties. Articles16 VI
and VII of the treaty provide that both the parties attach great importance to economic,
scientific and technological co-operation between them and that they would continue to
consolidate and expand mutually beneficial co-operation in various spheres. Article VIII
contains a solemn declaration by each party that it shall not enter into or participate in any
military alliance directed against the other party and shall abstain from any aggression against
the other party. Each party undertakes to aggression against the other party. Each party
undertakes to prevent the use of its territory for the commission of any act which might inflict
military damage upon the other party. Article IX says the each party undertakes to abstain
from providing an assistance to third party that engages in armed conflict with the other party
and that in the vent of the either party being subjected to an attack or a threat thereof, both the
sides shall enter into “mutual consolation” in order “To remove such threat and to take
appropriate effective measures to ensure peace and security of their countries”. Article X
Holds that each take any obligation with other nations as will cause military damage to their
country. Article XI provide that the Treaty shall last for 20 years, and that it will
automatically be extended for each successive periods of 5 years unless either party declares
its desire to terminate it by giving notice to the other party “12 months, before the expiration
of the treaty. Article XII lays down the procedure for setting any difference with regard to the

16
Meena B. Rao, India’s Foreign Policy, pg. no 121.

21
interpretation of any article f the treaty. It holds that such differences shall be settled
bilaterally by peaceful means in a spirit of mutual respect and understanding.

Conclusion:

With all these provisions the Treaty of Peace, Friendship and co-operation has been
successfully serving the cause of indo-soviet relations and co-operation since 1971. At the
times of signing the Treaty, Foreign Minister Mr. swaran Singh observed that, “he signing of
the treaty represented an important milestone in the path of our relations with the society
union which had been steadily getting closer and closer since 1955,. He further observed: The
treaty would serve as a shining example of how relations between two friendly countries
could be and should be developed and how they could serve not only the interest of the twoc
countries but also could be an important stabilizing factor in strengthening peace and security
in this region and throughout Asia and the world. Similar views were expressed by soviet
foreign minister Mr. Gromyko. He described the treaty as a very “significant landmark that
has crowned the principles and the consistent policy of the two countries”. In the joint
statement issued on 11th august 1971, the17 treaty was described as the logical outcome of the
relations of sincere friendship, respect, mutual trust and the ties which had been established
between India and Soviet Union in the curse of many years. The treaty was designed to open
up more prospects for ore fruitful cooperation between the two countries without doubt the
immediate reasons for the signing of the treaty were the alarming developments the flare up
in East Bengal, the growing Pindi-Beijing axis and the emerging Washington- Beijing hook
up through Islamabad’s good offices. Yet it was basically the logical outcome of Indo Soviet
relations and not the result of any soviet or Indian conspiracy or desire to build up a strong
Centre of power. It was not aimed against any nation. It was also not designed to penalize
Pakistan for its growing relations with China. It did not aim at the establishments of rival
power configuration in Asia. It was a treaty of peace and cooperation between two friendly
nations for giving a sound legal and political basis to their cooperation.

17
Meena B. Rao, India’s Foreign Policy, pg no 122-123.

22
Bibliography

1. Meena B. Rao, India’s Foreign Policy.


2. Dr. B.V.V. Bala Krishna& Dr. S. Subba Rao, Foreign Policy of India.
3. Manthan, India-RussiaRelations (April2,2019,9:40pm),
https://www.civilsdaily.com/india-russia-relations.
4. Shodhganga, India- Russia Relations ( April 3,2019, 10:00 pm),
http://shodhganga.inflibnet.ac.in/bitstream/10603/207808/5/5_%20chapter%202.pdf.
5. Aleksai , India- Russia Summit (April 1,2019, 12:30 pm),
https://idsa.in/idsacomments/india-russia-summit-azakharov-181018.

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