ADB ASSURES COVID-19 SUPPORT PACKAGE

Why in News?

  • The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has assured the Ministry of Finance of USD 2.2 billion (about Rs 16,500 crore) support to India in its fight against the Covid-19 pandemic.

Key Points:

ADB’s Support to India:

  • It is now preparing USD 2.2 billion in immediate assistance in response to Covid-19 to the health sector to help alleviate the economic impact of the pandemic on the poor.
  • ADB announced an initial package of approximately USD 6.5 billion to address the immediate needs of its developing member countries, including India, as an response to the Covid-19 pandemic.
  • ADB is also engaged with the private sector to meet its financing needs during this period.
  • It is ready to provide further financial assistance and policy advice whenever the situation warrants.
  • ADB is also planning to consider all financing options available to meet India’s needs, to facilitate swift disbursement of ADB funds including emergency assistance, policy-based loans, and budget support.

ADB praised efforts of the Government:

  • ADB praised the Indian government’s decisive response to the pandemic, including
  • Rs 1.7 lakh crore economic relief package (Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Yojana), which provides immediate income and consumption support to the poor, women, and workers affected by the three-week nationwide lockdown.
  • A national health emergency program.
  • Tax and other relief measures provided to businesses.

About Asian Development Bank:

  • ADB is a regional development bank established in the year 1966. ADB is headquartered in Manila, Philippines. ADB now has 68 members, 49 from within Asia.
  • Japan holds the largest proportion of shares in ADB followed by the USA.
  • It aims to promote social and economic development in Asia.
  • ADB is committed to achieving a prosperous, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable Asia and the Pacific, while sustaining its efforts to eradicate extreme poverty.