What Did Rajasthan CM Discuss with ADB Country Director?

Synopsis
Rajasthan's Chief Minister met with ADB's Country Director to forge partnerships in urban infrastructure and sustainable development. The discussions highlighted crucial investments to support the state's growth ambitions by 2030, showcasing the importance of collaboration in achieving a greener future.
Key Takeaways
- Strategic cooperation between Rajasthan and ADB is vital for development.
- Focus on urban infrastructure and road network improvements.
- Collaboration aims to support a $350 billion economy by 2030.
- Commitment to sustainable drinking water solutions.
- ADB's support for projects related to green development.
Jaipur, April 30 (NationPress) Rajasthan's Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma engaged in a meeting with Mio Oka, the Country Director of the Asian Development Bank (ADB), on Wednesday to explore avenues for enhancing strategic collaboration across various development sectors, including urban infrastructure, road networks, and civic amenities.
The Chief Minister underscored ADB's pivotal role in aiding Rajasthan's ambition to evolve into a $350 billion economy by 2030. He emphasized the shared vision of ‘Viksit Bharat 2047’ articulated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, asserting that ADB's ongoing support would be critical in propelling Rajasthan towards becoming a developed state by 2047.
Sharma acknowledged ADB's long-term partnership in fostering inclusive, sustainable, and innovation-driven development within the state.
During the assembly with the 16-member ADB delegation, the discussions revolved around infrastructure advancement, enhancements to road networks, prospective investments, and job creation.
The Chief Minister expressed his appreciation for ADB's current cooperation through projects like the Rajasthan Urban Infrastructure Development Project (RUIDP) and the Rajasthan Highway Investment Program, expressing a desire for deeper collaboration in domains such as green development, irrigation, and water supply.
In response, ADB reaffirmed its commitment to support civic infrastructure under the Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya Urban Development Scheme, which encompasses upgrades to sewerage, drainage systems, public parks, and mobility planning for public transportation.
ADB also committed to backing the Chief Minister Jal Jeevan Mission (Urban) to provide sustainable drinking water solutions in urban locales and assist in highway projects aimed at strengthening the rural economy.
Furthermore, an agreement was established for technical and financial cooperation in Jaipur Metro Phase-2, reflecting a joint interest in sustainable and modern urban transport solutions. ADB Country Director Mio Oka commended Rajasthan for leading the Green Budget initiative and suggested ADB’s assistance in areas like biodiversity conservation, green finance, clean technologies, green audits, and environmental protection.
Additionally, ADB officials conveyed their interest in financing projects related to employment generation, skill development, micro-irrigation, forestry, and climate resilience.
Present at the meeting were Deputy Chief Minister Diya Kumari, Minister of State for Urban Development (Independent Charge) Jhabar Singh Kharra, and senior officials from the state.