Russian President Vladimir Putin has arrived in Indian in a visit that is aimed at boosting Russia's trade and military alliance with the emerging south Asian nation.

He is expected to sign a host of military arms deal with the Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh during his visit to the country. Russia has been the prime source of weapons to India for several years but India s increasing exploring other options and placing orders with western companies.

The trade between Russia and India is estimated to be above $10 billion mark but the growth has seen a slowdown in recent times. Mr. Putin has said that he wanted to increase the bilateral trade to $20 billion by 2015. The two leaders are expected to meet at Mr Singh's residence instead of India Gate, where the protesters are holding demonstrations over a rape case in Delhi.

Mr. Putin said that the military co-operation between India and Russia has also reached an "unprecedented level". According to estimates, Russia's currently accounts for some 70% of India's arms purchases and Russia is looking to consolidate its position as a major supplier for India.