<h1>India and ADB Sign $113 Million Loan for Himachal Pradesh Energy Upgrade to Boost Hydropower and Economic Growth.</h1> The Government of India and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) have signed a $113 million loan agreement, the first tranche of a $350 million investment program aimed at upgrading Himachal Pradesh's energy transmission system. The total program cost is $437.85 million, with the state government contributing $87.85 million. This initiative will enhance the state's capacity to utilize its hydropower resources, boost electricity supply for various sectors, and support economic growth and poverty reduction. The program will also strengthen the financial and asset management of the Himachal Pradesh Power Transmission Corporation Ltd., with completion expected by December 2017.