Russian President Vladimir Putin and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi began summit talks in New Delhi on Friday, as New Delhi rolled out the red carpet for the Russian leader and Modi told him India supported peace efforts in Ukraine.

The return of toxic smog to New Delhi led to a spike in hospitalizations in November, with children suffering some of the worst and most lasting damage. Efforts by the government to clear the air have seen little success,

The Putin–Modi mega meet has officially begun in New Delhi, and the world is watching every move. With the Russian oil sanctions row intensifying, US President Donald Trump’s eyes are firmly on India as PM Modi and President Putin open one of the most consequential bilateral dialogues of the year.

Researchers have tied the problem to widespread over-extraction of groundwater, particularly in lower-income neighbourhoods where piped water is scarce.

Indians breathe some of the world’s most toxic air, and studies suggest it’s killing millions of them. Air pollution in New Delhi is especially deadly, and cold winter weather makes the smog even worse.

On this Special Report, the focus is on the arrival of the Russian President in New Delhi. The commentary highlights the 'money shot' of the warm hug and handshake shared with the Indian Prime Minister.

Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit to India aims to significantly boost economic cooperation, with New Delhi seeking to reduce its trade deficit and expand market access for Indian goods like pharmaceuticals and agricultural products.