<h1>India and ADB Sign $1.5B Loan Agreement to Strengthen COVID-19 Response and Support Vulnerable Populations.</h1> India and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) signed a $1.5 billion loan agreement to bolster India's COVID-19 response, focusing on containment, prevention, and social protection for vulnerable populations. The loan supports India's emergency programs, including a $2 billion health sector initiative and a $23 billion aid package for the poor. ADB's CARES Programme aims to enhance health services and social protection, while also exploring further economic support measures. The Reserve Bank of India has implemented financial measures to support the economy, including rate cuts and liquidity infusions. ADB remains committed to supporting sustainable growth in Asia and the Pacific.