NEW DELHI: A Russian delegation from the Government of Moscow, led by Sergei Cheremin, Minister of the Government of Moscow and Chairman of the Business Council for Cooperation with India, participated in the โII Smart Cities Forum: Russian-Indian Interregional Cooperationโ forum.
The discussion was held on March 20, 2025, at The Leela Palace in New Delhi, India.
Moscow has consistently ranked among the top smart cities due to its advanced public transport systems with AI-based traffic management, extensive surveillance networks with facial recognition, and digital governance with online services for citizens.
Vijay Govardhandas Kalantri, Chairman of Russia-India Trade House, Mumbai, has emphasized the need for stronger India-Russia collaboration in smart city development. He believes India should focus on improving its smart city projects, special economic zones, and technology parks.
Currently, India has 100 smart cities under the Smart Cities Mission, which was launched by the Government of India in 2015 to promote sustainable and citizen-friendly urban development.
Speaking at the Smart City forum, Kalantri, Chairman and MD of Balaji Infra Projects and Dighi Port, stated, โWe have been talking about 99 smart cities, special economic zones, and technology parks, but we have not succeeded as much as we should have.โ
He highlighted Russiaโs advanced technology in infrastructure, logistics, and communication. Kalantri suggested that India should invite Russia to invest in these projects. He pointed out that the balance of trade is in Russiaโs favor, with trade expected to reach $70 billion this year and cross $100 billion in the next three years. โThey could invest in smart city projects, economic zones, and technology parks. This will strengthen the India-Russia manufacturing and business partnership,โ he said.
He also stressed the importance of better infrastructure for smart cities. โTo build a good city, you need a proper sewerage system, clean water, and good transport. Russia has the technology for this. Their expertise can help us improve railways, logistics, and communication,โ Kalantri explained.
When asked about the Trump tariff set to take effect on April 2, Kalantri dismissed concerns about its impact on India-Russia trade. โThe tariff is a reality, and we should go with it. It is a small issue and will not have a major effect,โ he stated.
He noted that even in the US, the tariff is facing resistance. โWhen the tariff goes up, goods become expensive for American consumers. Until they start local production, this will impact them as well,โ he said.
Kalantri encouraged Russian companies to establish manufacturing units in India. โRussia should build manufacturing units here and export to Russia and other countries. India is a competitive country to work with,โ he said.
He believes India and Russia can create strong business opportunities together. โRussia can be a leading partner in Indiaโs trade and industry. A joint venture will benefit both countries,โ he concluded.
