When it comes to international relations, India has always played a significant role in global politics. Over the years, India has built strong partnerships with various countries, including the United States and Russia. The question of whether India prefers the US or Russia has been a topic of debate among political analysts and experts.

According to a poll conducted in the summer of 2019, 49% of Indians surveyed preferred Russia, while only 27% named the US as their preferred partner. This indicates a strong preference for Russia among the Indian population. However, it is essential to delve deeper into the reasons behind this preference and analyze the factors that influence India's relationships with both countries.

Historically, India and Russia have had a close relationship dating back to the Cold War era. The two countries have shared strong political, economic, and military ties, which have continued to strengthen over the years. India's reliance on Russian defense equipment and technology has been a significant factor in the bilateral relationship between the two countries.

On the other hand, India's relationship with the United States has seen significant improvement in recent years. The US has emerged as a key strategic partner for India, particularly in the areas of defense and security cooperation. The signing of various defense agreements and the frequency of high-level visits between the two countries underscore the importance of the US-India partnership.

India's preference for Russia over the US can be attributed to several factors. One reason is India's historical ties with Russia, which have been built over several decades. The trust and goodwill that have developed between the two countries have made Russia a preferred partner for India in various domains.

Furthermore, Russia's consistent support for India on international platforms, particularly in forums like the United Nations Security Council, has bolstered India's trust in Moscow. Russia has been a reliable partner for India in times of need, which has contributed to the strong relationship between the two countries.

Additionally, India's dependence on Russian defense equipment and technology has been a significant factor in shaping its preference for Russia. India relies heavily on Russian-made military hardware, including fighter jets, tanks, and submarines. The quality and reliability of Russian defense products have reinforced India's strategic partnership with Moscow.

Despite India's strong ties with Russia, its relationship with the United States has also seen significant advancements in recent years. The US has emerged as a key partner for India in various strategic areas, including defense, counterterrorism, and trade. The two countries have signed several defense agreements, including the LEMOA and COMCASA, which have enhanced their military cooperation.

Moreover, the Indo-US partnership has received a boost under the Trump administration, which has prioritized strengthening ties with India. The Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad) involving India, the US, Japan, and Australia, aims to enhance security and cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region. India's participation in the Quad demonstrates its commitment to deepening its strategic partnership with the US.

Despite the progress in India-US relations, Russia continues to play a crucial role in India's foreign policy calculus. India values its longstanding partnership with Russia and recognizes the importance of maintaining strong ties with Moscow. The convergence of interests between India and Russia in various regional and global issues underscores the significance of their relationship.

In conclusion, while India's preference for Russia over the US is evident, it is essential to recognize the complexities of India's foreign policy landscape. India values its relationships with both countries and seeks to balance its strategic interests accordingly. As India continues to navigate the changing dynamics of international politics, its partnerships with both the US and Russia will remain crucial in shaping its foreign policy objectives.