India, ADB Sign $2.2 Billion Loans for Sustainable Energy and Infrastructure

India and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) have agreed on five new loans totaling more than $2.2 billion to scale up projects that contribute to sustainable development goals, including clean energy and eco-friendly infrastructure. The agreements were formalized on December 15, 2025, reflecting continued collaboration between the Indian government and multilateral development partners to accelerate the country’s transition to a greener, more resilient economy.

A major sustainability component of the financing is the Accelerating Affordable and Inclusive Rooftop Solar Systems Development Programme, backed by approximately $650 million. This initiative aims to expand rooftop solar adoption across India, supporting the national Pradhan Mantri Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana to make clean, affordable solar energy available to millions of households — a key step in reducing dependence on fossil fuels and lowering carbon emissions.

Beyond solar, part of the ADB package supports sustainable urban mobility through the Chennai Metro Rail Investment Project (Tranche 2), which will expand mass transit infrastructure in one of India’s largest cities. Enhancing public transport not only eases congestion but also cuts vehicle emissions and promotes energy-efficient movement of people in dense urban centers — an important pillar of sustainable cities.

The loan agreements also include funding for an Integrated Ecotourism and Sustainable Agri-based Livelihood Development Project in Meghalaya, which aims to foster eco-friendly tourism and strengthen rural livelihoods while preserving natural resources. These combined efforts support broader environmental, social, and economic sustainability agendas, aligning with India’s climate commitments and pathways toward inclusive green growth.