India-Japan
Big win for India: Japan steps up funding for Metro Rail, hospitals, farming projects
The Government of Japan has committed an Official Development Assistance (ODA) loan of JPY 275.858 billion (approximately ₹16,420 crore) to India for four major development projects spanning urban transport, healthcare, and agriculture across Punjab, Karnataka, and Maharashtra.
The Exchange of Notes took place 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 also include loan arrangements with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).
The funding will support key infrastructure and development initiatives, including:
Bengaluru Metro Rail Project (Phase 3) (I) (JPY 102.480 billion), aimed at expanding mass rapid transit capacity in the Bengaluru Metropolitan Region to reduce congestion, improve urban mobility, and lower vehicular emissions.
Mumbai Metro Line 11 Project (I) (JPY 92.400 billion), designed to enhance urban transport infrastructure in Mumbai, ease traffic congestion, and contribute to sustainable urban development.
Project for Strengthening Tertiary Healthcare Delivery, Medical Education System & Nursing Education System in Maharashtra (I) (JPY 62.294 billion), focused on improving access to quality healthcare through upgraded tertiary care facilities, medical colleges, and nursing institutions, contributing to Universal Health Coverage (UHC).
Project for Promoting Sustainable Horticulture in Punjab (JPY 18.684 billion), aimed at boosting sustainable agricultural practices, diversifying crop production into high-value horticulture, and strengthening value chains to improve farmers’ incomes.
These initiatives are expected to advance sustainable economic growth, strengthen critical infrastructure, and improve public services while supporting environmental sustainability and climate resilience through reduced congestion and pollution.
India and Japan share a long-standing development partnership dating back to 1958. Over the years, economic cooperation has remained a key pillar of bilateral relations, further reinforcing the India–Japan Strategic and Global Partnership.
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