The World Bank’s Board of Directors on November 25 approved two projects in India that will benefit more than 6 million people through the use of innovative digital solutions to improve the quality of education in the state of Punjab and increase incomes for small and marginal farmers in the state of Maharashtra, the World Bank said in a statement.
The $286 million Punjab Outcomes-Acceleration in School Education Operation (POISE) program will help improve the quality of education in Punjab using technology to track learning outcomes. It will ensure enrollment of 13 lakh students in primary schools and over 2.2 million students in secondary schools. In addition, 59 lakh students will be supported in early childhood education.
The Phase II project Maharashtra Project on Climate Resilient Agriculture (POCRA) ($490 million) will increase crop productivity and strengthen resilience by applying digital technology to precision farming practices. This method uses technology to ensure crops and soil get exactly what they need for optimal health and productivity, maximizing yields and eliminating waste.
More than 20 lakh small and marginal farmers in Maharashtra, of which 2.9 lakh are women, will benefit from better soil health, nutrient management and more efficient water use. It will help improve climate resilience and increase the income level of smallholder farmers in 21 districts in Maharashtra by 30 percent.
World Bank India Acting Country Director Paul Proccee said digital infrastructure has the potential to significantly boost economic development and poverty reduction by increasing efficiency, fostering innovation and improving outcomes in healthcare, education, agriculture and other key sectors.
“The two new projects will support India’s vision of Viksit Bharat through quality education for better jobs and the use of technology for higher crop productivity and better livelihoods,” Proccee said.
The POISE project has a final term of 19 years, including a five-year grace period, and the POCRA Phase II project has a final term of 24 years, including a six-year grace period.
Published on November 26, 2025
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