Ahead of Russian President Vladimir Putin’s upcoming visit to India, Bihar-born doctor-turned-politician Abhay Singh—now a deputy (MLA) in the Kursk regional legislature—has advised India to consider acquiring Russia’s S-500 air defense system. In an interview with India Today, Singh said that although India’s current S-400 missile system is highly capable, the S-500 represents the latest and most advanced technology available.

He added, “Even China doesn’t have this system. India must acquire the S-500. It would be a significant strategic achievement. The Sukhoi-57 is also an excellent aircraft.”

Who is Abhay Singh?

Abhay Singh is a member of Russia’s ruling United Russia Party, led by President Putin. Born in Patna, he moved to the Soviet Union in 1991 to pursue a medical degree. In an interview with The Week in 2023, Singh said, “I’m from Bihar. Politics is in our DNA—here it is just a formality.” He also shared that he holds a monthly “Janata Darbar,” where locals approach him with their issues, and he tries to assist them.

Singh is known for his involvement in regional development, infrastructure initiatives, and support for expatriate communities. Reports suggest that after witnessing Russia transform post-USSR, he became deeply impressed by Putin’s leadership. Singh believes that Putin has strengthened Russia to a point where it now stands shoulder-to-shoulder with the United States.