Exclusive Interview: Ashish Deep Verma on India–Russia Forum Preparations

The Times of Russia – Russia News Exclusive Interview | Ashish Deep Verma, Legal Advisor, BRICS Culture Media Forum

“India–Russia Forum Marks a New Strategic Chapter: The Preparations Reflect the Future We’re Entering”

As India prepares to welcome President Vladimir Putin for one of the most high-level India–Russia engagements in recent years, The Times of Russia spoke with Ashish Deep Verma, Legal Advisor at the BRICS Culture Media Forum. In this exclusive Russia news conversation, Verma offers rare insights into the preparation, security, diplomacy, and the enormous business potential tied to the upcoming India–Russia Forum.

Preparation & High-Level Coordination

How would you describe the level of preparation and coordination you witnessed for President Putin’s visit?

Ashish Deep Verma describes the preparations as “extremely high and very structured,” noting that both countries are approaching the event as a strategic milestone, not just a ceremonial occasion.

He highlights meticulously aligned logistics, protocols, business agendas, and side meetings, backed by coordinated efforts across ministries, business chambers, and security agencies.

“This level of coordination shows how seriously both countries view this engagement,” he says.

What stood out in terms of alignment between Indian and Russian authorities?

According to Ashish Deep Verma, the clarity of purpose was unmistakable. Rather than operating independently, both sides synchronized priorities across sectors such as energy, defence, trade, technology, and connectivity.

“The dialogue was result-oriented,” he notes. “Teams were focused on deliverables—new agreements, concrete business opportunities, and long-term frameworks.”

Security & Protocol

What did you observe about the security arrangements for President Putin’s arrival?

Ashish Deep Verma confirms that security preparations have been “robust and multilayered,” reflecting the gravity of the visit.

Visible security presence was complemented by discreet operations—route planning, venue sanitisation, access control, and emergency response strategies.

“Tight security has been balanced with seamless functionality,” he adds, ensuring delegates and business leaders can fully participate.

How do these protocols reflect the current geopolitical relevance of India–Russia ties?

He believes the scale and seriousness of the security arrangements send a clear diplomatic message.

“When a nation invests this level of effort, it signals the depth of the partnership,” Verma says. “In today’s evolving geopolitical landscape, this underscores that India and Russia continue to see each other as trusted, long-term partners.”

Event Success & Strategic Outcomes

Why is this forum considered one of the most strategically important India–Russia events in recent years?

Ashish Deep Verma points to the shifting global trade patterns and geopolitical realignments.

“This forum comes at a time when both countries want to rebalance economic engagements and reduce overdependence on any single region,” he explains.

Bringing together government, industry, finance, and policy stakeholders, the forum aims to lay down long-term roadmaps for trade, investment, and technological collaboration.

What makes this event poised for major success?

He attributes the expected success to three factors:

• Strong political will

• Active ministerial participation

• High business interest on both sides

“What I’ve seen is not just MoU-driven conversations,” Verma emphasizes. “Discussions are focused on execution—market access, payment systems, joint ventures, SME support, and real solutions.”

What new avenues of cooperation may emerge?

Ashish Deep Verma highlights fast-growing discussions in:

• Energy & critical minerals

• Pharmaceuticals & healthcare

• IT, fintech & digital services

• Agriculture & food processing

• Infrastructure, logistics & port development

Beyond traditional areas like defence, he sees rising momentum in co-development, co-manufacturing, SME platforms, local currency trade, and sector-wise market entry corridors.

Business Opportunities for India

How will the forum open new opportunities for Indian companies in the Russian market?

According to Ashish Deep Verma, the forum provides “direct access”—the most valuable currency in international business.

Indian companies will engage Russian buyers, regulators, investors, and distributors face-to-face, with practical issues like certifications, logistics, and payment mechanisms addressed in dedicated sessions.

“For many MSMEs, Russia felt like a distant market. This forum converts that distance into opportunity.”

Which sectors are poised to benefit the most?

Verma cites strong potential in:

• Pharmaceuticals & Healthcare

• IT, Digital Services & Startups

• Agriculture & Food Products

• Machinery & Engineering Goods

• Education & Skills Development

He stresses that sustained policy support can turn this momentum into long-term commercial partnerships.

Diplomatic Environment & Personal Insights

What was the diplomatic environment like during the preparations?

Ashish Deep Verma observed a constructive, calm, and focused diplomatic atmosphere. He describes a strong sense of familiarity between both delegations, rooted in decades of partnership—combined with a shared understanding that the future will rely heavily on technology, economy, and people-to-people ties.

“The discussions have been pragmatic and respectful, centered on clear deliverables.”

Message to Indian Entrepreneurs

What would you tell Indian entrepreneurs about the Russian market?

Ashish Deep Verma offers a direct message:

“Do not ignore Russia. It is a large, evolving market with significant demand in sectors where India is strong—pharma, IT, agro products, engineering, and services.”

He acknowledges challenges but stresses that governments and institutions on both sides are actively addressing regulatory and logistical barriers.

“If Indian companies invest time in understanding the market and building trust, Russia can become a major pillar of their global strategy. This forum is the signal—the door is open. Now it’s time for our entrepreneurs to walk through it.”