World Bank Approves $776 Million for Projects in Punjab, Maharashtra

As per The Economic Times report, On November 25, 2025, the World Bank Board of Executive Directors approved 2 major projects in India. One is the Punjab Outcomes-Acceleration in School Education Operation (POISE), valued at $286 million, targeting quality improvement in primary and secondary education for approximately 35 lakh students.  

It also supports early childhood education for 59 lakh children through digital learning enhancements and outcome tracking systems. 

$490 Million Approved for Maharashtra 

The 2nd initiative, Maharashtra Project on Climate Resilient Agriculture (POCRA) Phase II, involves funding of $490 million. This project focuses on promoting precision farming and smart agricultural practices using digital tools.  

It intends to support over 20 lakh small and marginal farmers, including 2.9 lakh women farmers, across 21 districts in the state, helping them improve soil health, nutrient application, and water efficiency, and increase incomes by 30%. 

Objective: Drive Development Through Innovation and Digital Infrastructure 

Both initiatives reinforce India’s national agenda of Viksit Bharat by addressing foundational issues in education and agriculture. Utilising digital infrastructure, the projects aim to introduce scalable solutions for economic growth and poverty alleviation.  

The POISE project is planned with a maturity of 19 years, including a 5-year grace period, while POCRA Phase II will span 24 years with a 6-year grace period. 

These developments underscore the growing role of data-driven models and innovative technologies in transforming public services and rural livelihoods in India. 

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Impact on Education and Farming Communities 

The combined impact of both programmes is expected to benefit over 60 lakh beneficiaries. Punjab’s educational advancements will ensure learning continuity and higher student enrollment and tracking, while Maharashtra's agricultural programme will help build inclusive economic resilience among smallholders, especially women farmers. 

Conclusion 

The World Bank’s approval of $776 million in funding marks a strategic move to improve human capital and agricultural productivity in India. By leveraging digital technology, these efforts aim to boost efficiency and long-term economic resilience in Punjab and Maharashtra. 

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