ADB Appoints Sona Shrestha to Lead South Asia Operations Amid Regional Development Push

New Delhi/Manila: The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has named Sona Shrestha, a Nepali economist with over 27 years in development finance, as the new Director General of its South Asia Department (SARD). In her new role, Shrestha will oversee ADB's strategy and operations across Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, and Sri Lanka, focusing on inclusive and sustainable growth.

"I am honored to be appointed Director General of South Asia," Shrestha said. "I look forward to working closely with our developing member countries in the region to further deepen ADB’s engagement in support of inclusive and sustainable development."

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Shrestha brings a wealth of experience, including 23 years at ADB. Most recently, she served as Deputy Director General for SARD and previously led ADB’s Independent Evaluations Department. Her career spans key roles such as Assistant Secretary, Director in the Financial Sector and Trade Division for Southeast Asia, and Deputy Country Director for Indonesia. Earlier, she managed operations in Central and West Asia, South Asia, and Southeast Asia.

A national of Nepal, Shrestha holds a doctorate and master’s in economics from the University of California, alongside a bachelor’s from Smith College in Massachusetts.

ADB's Pivotal Role in India

ADB has been a cornerstone partner in India's development, committing over $50 billion since 1986 in sovereign and non-sovereign financing for infrastructure, urban development, energy, and climate resilience. Key contributions include funding the Delhi-Meerut Regional Rapid Transit System, smart city projects in Pune and Kochi, and renewable energy initiatives like solar parks aligning with India's 500 GW target by 2030. These efforts have boosted connectivity, created jobs, and advanced sustainable urban growth, directly supporting national priorities like Atmanirbhar Bharat.

Founded in 1966 and owned by 69 members—50 from Asia-Pacific—ADB deploys innovative financing and partnerships to tackle regional challenges, from climate change to poverty alleviation. Shrestha's appointment signals intensified focus on South Asia's post-pandemic recovery and green transition.

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