Green Investment for Growing Cities: Amaravati Climate Action Plan in Focus
At the 30th Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) Partnership Summit held on 14 November 2025, Emani Kumar, Deputy Secretary General, ICLEI and Executive Director, ICLEI South Asia, spoke on the panel “Sustainable Cities: From Vision to Investments.” The session was chaired by Hon’ble Ponguru Narayana, Minister of Municipal Administration and Urban Development, Andhra Pradesh.
Mr. Kumar underscored that as Indian cities grow, there is an increased need for bankable Climate Change Action Plans (CCAPs). He noted that these plans are critical to de-risking urban investments, unlocking finance while simultaneously accelerating green, resilient growth.
Mr. Kumar showcased the Amaravati Climate Change Action Plan designed to build Amaravati as a low-carbon and climate-resilient capital. He highlighted that the action plan outlines a ₹37,555 crore climate investment pipeline, with major opportunities in renewable energy, green buildings, transport electrification, urban greening, waste, and water systems. He underscored that the Amaravati CCAP aligns with global green bond taxonomies, making its projects immediately eligible for green financing.
The plan outlines 37 strategies across nine sectors, targeting 100% renewable energy by 2058, resilient water systems, circular waste management, zero-emission mobility, health, and biodiversity. It also projects the creation of 40,500 green jobs through the shift to clean energy and e-mobility.
By offering specific cost estimates for climate actions, quantified benefits, and long-term emission-reduction targets, the CCAP strengthens investor confidence and positions Amaravati to attract MDB funding, private capital, green bonds, CSR funds, and philanthropic investments.
Mr. Kumar highlighted that ICLEI South Asia will continue to support cities in Andhra Pradesh and across India and South Asia to prepare and implement low-carbon, investment-ready urban development roadmaps and actions. Strengthening municipal capacity and facilitating sustainable finance remains central to ICLEI’s mission of advancing green, resilient, and inclusive cities.
