Leaders discuss sustainable finance and green investment

Industry leaders, policymakers, and financial institutions gathered to discuss sustainable finance and investment strategies aimed at integrating environmental considerations into economic decision-making. The discussions, held at AFAI national summit and Indian climate leader awards 2025, focused on improving access to green finance, strengthening regulatory frameworks, and fostering private sector participation in sustainable projects.

Speakers included Vivek Kumar Dewangan (CMD, REC), Dr Padmanabhan Raja Jaishankar (MD, IIFCL), Sudhendu J Sinha (Advisor, NITI Aayog), and other industry leaders. They stressed the need for green bonds and credit enhancements to support low-impact infrastructure projects. Panelists highlighted the role of non-banking financial companies (NBFCs) in funding sustainable projects. While the government is the main source of green financing, they emphasized the need for more private investment for long-term sustainability. Experts also called for businesses to follow environmental, social, and governance (ESG) standards to ensure transparency in green investments.