As part of the activities to encourage transformational proposals to the Green Climate Fund’s Enhanced Direct Access (EDA) modality, Anju Sharma held a series of meeting with staff the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development, GCF National Implementing Entity for India, on 7 August 2017. NABARD Deputy Managing Director HR Dave supported the development of an ambitious proposal for EDA in India aimed at building systems to deliver climate finance to local governments (Panchayat Raj Institutions, or PRIs). An initial planning meeting then followed with NABARD staff, followed by a video conference with NABARD Regional Offices in some states of India.

On the following day, 8 August, a state-level consultation was held in Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh, where the proposal is expected to be piloted. It was chaired by the Principal Secretary to the Government of Andhra Pradesh in charge of Panchayat Raj and Rural Development; and Vijay Kumar, Advisor to the Government of Andhra Pradesh. Participants included representatives of the state departments for Panchayat Raj and Rural Development; Heads (Sarpanches) of PRIs in Andhra Pradesh; civil society representatives; and representatives from the NABARD Regional Office in Andhra Pradesh.

Kuldeep Singh, Deputy General Manager, NABARD, described the GCF, and described NABARD’s existing proposals that have been submitted to the Fund. Anju Sharma then presented a proposal for an EDA project that focuses on systems to deliver funds to PRIs, and to leverage development finance. The proposal was well received, and considered integral to the needs of the state. A small group was formed to develop the proposal further.