New Delhi, March 27, 2026 — The Government of Japan has pledged Official Development Assistance (ODA) loans worth 275.858 billion Japanese Yen (approximately ₹16,420 crore) to India for four major projects spanning urban transport, healthcare, and agriculture. These projects will be implemented across the states of Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Punjab.
The loan agreements were formally exchanged on March 24, 2026, between Alok Tiwari, Joint Secretary, Department of Economic Affairs, Ministry of Finance, Government of India, and Keiichi Ono, Ambassador of Japan to India. The agreements were also signed with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), reinforcing bilateral development cooperation.
Key Projects Covered Under the Agreement:
- Bengaluru Metro Rail Project Phase 3 (I) (102.480 billion Yen): Aims to expand mass rapid transit in Bengaluru, addressing rising urban mobility demands, reducing congestion, and lowering vehicular emissions.
- Mumbai Metro Line 11 Project (I) (92.400 billion Yen): Focuses on strengthening Mumbai’s public transport infrastructure to support economic growth and environmental sustainability.
- Maharashtra Healthcare Strengthening Project (I) (62.294 billion Yen): Seeks to enhance tertiary healthcare delivery, medical education, and nursing infrastructure, improving access and quality of care.
- Punjab Sustainable Horticulture Project (18.684 billion Yen): Designed to promote high-value crop diversification, strengthen value chains, and boost farmers’ incomes through sustainable practices.
The initiative is expected to not only accelerate infrastructure development but also contribute to climate resilience, improved public health systems, and agricultural sustainability.
