Three Russian military aircraft landed at the newly operational Noida International Airport in Jewar on Tuesday morning, marking the facility’s first landing by foreign aircraft as India stepped up preparations for the upcoming BRICS Summit and Russian President Vladimir Putin’s visit.

The aircraft arrived at around 5:30 am, with a Russian IL-76 military transport aircraft among them. A Russian advance team and military personnel were also reported to have arrived as part of preparations linked to the high-profile diplomatic engagements in the Delhi-NCR region. 

The arrival gives the new airport an important role in handling international movements around one of India’s biggest diplomatic events of the year.

Russian Aircraft Arrive Ahead of Putin Visit

The three aircraft have been linked to arrangements for Putin’s upcoming India visit and the 18th BRICS Summit, scheduled in New Delhi on September 12 and 13.

Russian and Indian security personnel were involved in overseeing arrangements around the aircraft after their arrival. Reports said the planes remained parked at the airport through Wednesday. (India Today)

The movement is significant because foreign military aircraft visiting India have traditionally operated through Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport. The use of Noida Airport for the Russian aircraft provides an early indication of how the new facility could support high-level international movements.

Noida Airport Handles First Foreign Aircraft

The Russian aircraft landing is the first reported foreign aircraft arrival at the new airport.

The development comes soon after the facility began its operational phase and puts the Jewar airport in the spotlight even before its role in regular international aviation expands.

The arrival of military transport aircraft also provides an early operational test of the airport’s ability to handle special flights associated with VIP movements, security requirements and international protocol. 

Why Noida Airport Matters for BRICS Preparations

The Delhi-NCR region is preparing to receive several foreign leaders and delegations for the BRICS summit. Authorities are using multiple airports and special-flight arrangements to manage the expected movement of high-profile aircraft.

The Russian aircraft movement therefore comes at a time when airport and security agencies are preparing for increased diplomatic traffic ahead of the summit.

The BRICS summit itself will be held at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi on September 12 and 13, with several heads of state and government expected to participate. Putin is scheduled to attend the summit. (India Today)

IL-76 Among the Russian Aircraft

One of the aircraft identified in the movement is Russia’s IL-76, a heavy military transport aircraft designed to carry personnel, cargo and equipment.

Its presence is particularly relevant to advance preparations because military transport aircraft can be used to move personnel and logistical equipment ahead of senior leaders and official delegations.

Reports have also identified the arriving personnel as part of a Russian advance team, although details of the exact operational arrangements have not been publicly disclosed. 

Airport Becomes Part of High-Level Diplomatic Logistics

The Russian aircraft landing highlights the expanding role of Noida International Airport in the Delhi-NCR aviation network.

For the newly operational facility, handling the first foreign military aircraft ahead of a major international summit represents a significant operational milestone.

At the same time, the aircraft's presence should be viewed primarily in the context of official logistical and security preparations. There is no confirmed indication that the landing itself represents a separate defence agreement or new military arrangement between India and Russia.

With the BRICS summit only days away, attention will now remain on the movement of foreign delegations and special aircraft into the national capital region.

The international BRICS Agriculture Conference commenced in Indore on Tuesday, bringing together agriculture ministers, senior officials, and experts from nearly 20 countries. Hosted by India in its capacity as BRICS president, the five-day event from June 9 to 13 is expected to shape future global cooperation in food security and sustainable farming.

The gathering assumes significance as BRICS nations collectively account for a substantial share of the world’s agricultural resources. Central Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan highlighted that the group holds about 42% of global agricultural land, 68% of agricultural holdings, and 42% of food production, positioning the Indore meet as a key platform for influencing worldwide agricultural policies.

India-Russia Bilateral Engagement

In the first session on Tuesday, a bilateral meeting between India and Russia took centre stage. Discussions focused on deepening bilateral cooperation, expanding agricultural trade, and promoting technical collaboration for sustainable development. Officials explored strengthening food supply chains, improving market access, and advancing joint research on climate-resilient farming practices. Sources familiar with the meeting described the talks as constructive, reflecting a shared commitment to bolster strategic partnership in agriculture.

Focus on Key Global Challenges

The conference will address four major themes: food security, nutrition and livelihoods; agricultural trade and international cooperation; climate-resilient and sustainable agriculture; and innovation and partnerships in agri-food systems. Particular attention is being paid to challenges faced by small and marginal farmers, access to credit, market linkages, and adoption of modern technologies.

Detailed Schedule for Ministerial-Level Discussions

Over the coming days, the Agriculture Working Group will deliberate on a draft joint declaration. The ministerial dialogue is scheduled for June 12, with the theme ‘Ensuring Future Food Security through Small Farmers, Women and Youth’. On June 13, the main BRICS Agriculture Ministers’ meeting will conclude the event with the adoption of key recommendations.

Delegates are also set to participate in a symbolic ‘BRICS Vatika’ initiative, involving collective tree planting to underscore commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable development.

Cultural Immersion for International Delegates

Foreign participants will get a taste of Indore and the Malwa region’s rich heritage. Planned visits include Rajwada Palace, Chhappan Dukan, Sarafa Bazaar, and the historic Mandu fort. One delegate group had already enjoyed local cuisine at Chhappan Dukan a day before the formal start.

For Madhya Pradesh, the event presents a major opportunity to position itself as a hub for global agriculture, food processing, and investment. Experts believe successful outcomes could boost the state’s export potential and attract new collaborations in agri-innovation.

Looking Ahead

As the conference progresses, expectations are high for concrete outcomes on reducing food loss, tackling climate change impacts, and empowering women and youth in agriculture. The final document from the ministerial meeting is likely to outline actionable steps for enhanced BRICS cooperation in the sector.

The Indore BRICS Agriculture Conference comes at a time when global food systems face multiple pressures, from climate variability to supply chain disruptions. India’s proactive hosting reflects its growing role in shaping multilateral agricultural agendas.