CM Bhajan Lal Sharma has expressed confidence that the Asian Development Bank (ADB) will play an important strategic role in achieving the target of making the State a 350 billion dollar economy by 2030. Stressing on the need to enhance partnership with ADB in areas other than urban development and road construction, he said that ADB’s support will be crucial for creating a developed Rajasthan by 2047 in line with Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision of a developed India 2047.
The Chief Minister on Wednesday held discussions with a 16-member delegation of ADB on various subjects and possible investments, including upgradation of the state’s road system and infrastructure development. “ADB has always been a key contributor to our shared priorities of inclusive, sustainable and innovation-driven growth. He said that ADB’s collaboration with Rajasthan will accelerate strategic partnership as well as employment opportunities, promote climate-resilient green growth and create more opportunities for social and economic inclusive growth.
CM Bhajan Lal Sharma said that at present ADB is supporting through RUIDP project for development of urban areas of the state and Rajasthan Highway Investment Programme for upgradation of road sector and the state will continue to benefit from ADB’s continuous positive support, technical expertise and vast experience of development. The Chief Minister expressed the resolve of the state government to take all possible steps to ensure better provision of drinking water and irrigation in the state and offered ADB’s support in this direction.
In view of the increasing pressure of population in all urban areas of the state, ADB showed full commitment to support Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay Urban Development Scheme announced in the budget for better civic amenities like sewerage, drainage, parks, comprehensive mobility plan for public transport etc. Also, ADB will be a partner in the state government’s resolve to ensure availability of drinking water in urban areas under the Mukhyamantri Jal Jeevan Mission (Urban). ADB will also be involved in highway development projects to strengthen the rural economy. It was also agreed to work in the field of technical-financial cooperation for Jaipur Metro Phase-2.
In the meeting, Country Director Ms. Oka appreciated Rajasthan’s innovative initiative of bringing Green Budget in the country and proposed ADB’s support in the areas of Biodiversity, Green Finance, Green-Audit, Clean Technology. At the same time, ADB officials showed interest in financing new sectors such as employment, skill development, micro-irrigation, forestry and environment.
Due to the special efforts of the state government, such a top delegation has visited Rajasthan after a long time. On this occasion, Deputy Chief Minister Mrs. Diya Kumari, Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Urban Development Mr. Jhabar Singh Kharra and senior officers were also present.