New Delhi/Manila: The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has appointed Sona Shrestha, a seasoned development economist from Nepal, as the new Director General of its South Asia Department (SARD), signaling a renewed push toward inclusive, sustainable, and climate-resilient growth across the region.
In her new role, Shrestha will lead ADB’s strategic planning and operations in Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, and Sri Lanka, overseeing development financing, policy support, and regional cooperation initiatives.
“I am honored to be appointed Director General of South Asia,” Shrestha said in a statement. “I look forward to working closely with our developing member countries to deepen ADB’s engagement in support of inclusive and sustainable development.”
Extensive Experience in Development Finance
Shrestha brings more than 27 years of experience in development finance, including 23 years with ADB in senior leadership roles. Prior to this appointment, she served as Deputy Director General of the South Asia Department and earlier headed ADB’s Independent Evaluation Department.
Her career at ADB includes key assignments such as Assistant Secretary, Director in the Financial Sector and Trade Division for Southeast Asia, and Deputy Country Director for Indonesia. She has also managed operations across Central and West Asia, South Asia, and Southeast Asia, giving her deep regional expertise.
A national of Nepal, Shrestha holds a PhD and a Master’s degree in Economics from the University of California, along with a Bachelor’s degree from Smith College, Massachusetts.
ADB’s Strategic Role in India and South Asia
ADB remains a major development partner for India and the wider South Asian region. Since 1986, the bank has committed over $50 billion in sovereign and non-sovereign financing to India, supporting sectors such as infrastructure, urban development, energy, transport, and climate resilience.
Key projects backed by ADB include the Delhi–Meerut Regional Rapid Transit System, smart city initiatives in Pune and Kochi, and large-scale renewable energy projects aligned with India’s target of 500 GW of non-fossil fuel capacity by 2030. In 2025 alone, ADB committed $4.26 billion in sovereign lending to India.
These investments have strengthened regional connectivity, generated employment, and advanced sustainable urbanization, closely aligning with national priorities such as Atmanirbhar Bharat and climate action.
Focus on Green Transition and Post-Pandemic Recovery
Founded in 1966, ADB is owned by 69 member countries, including 50 from the Asia-Pacific region. The bank plays a critical role in addressing challenges such as climate change, poverty reduction, and economic recovery through innovative financing and regional partnerships.
Shrestha’s appointment is expected to intensify ADB’s focus on South Asia’s post-pandemic recovery, green infrastructure, and inclusive growth, at a time when the region faces mounting climate and development pressures.