Empowering Solid Waste Management: IFS Workshop Illuminates PPP Structuring Toolkit

New Delhi: The Infrastructure Finance Secretariat (IFS) in the Department of Economic Affairs (DEA), Ministry of Finance, successfully concluded a two-day workshop in New Delhi, aimed at empowering Project Sponsoring Authorities (PSAs) in utilizing the PPP structuring toolkit for projects in the Solid Waste Management (SWM) sector. The workshop, held in a hybrid mode, attracted over 80 participants from both Central Government and State/UT Governments, showcasing the widespread interest and relevance of the initiative.

The ‘PPP Structuring Toolkit’ is a strategic move by IFS to support PSAs in developing projects objectively, with a focus on enhancing private sector investment in the country. Solid Waste Management is identified as a prominent sector for Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs), making the toolkit crucial for fostering sustainable initiatives in this domain.

The inauguration of the workshop was led by Shri Baldeo Purushartha, Joint Secretary, Infrastructure Support & Development (ISD) Division, DEA, MoF. Shri Purushartha emphasized the pivotal role of infrastructure in fostering India’s higher growth trajectory and stressed the need for creating a shelf of viable infrastructure projects. The workshop not only provided an overview of the toolkit but also included a demonstration of its practical application for Solid Waste Management projects. Shri Purushartha encouraged participants to actively develop PPP projects in the solid waste management sector.

Ms. Preeti Jain, Director, DEA, shed light on how infrastructure development contributes to GDP growth and underscored the importance of appropriately structuring PPP projects, considering their inherent complexities.

The workshop delved into the toolkit’s intricacies through case studies, ensuring practical understanding among participants. The five integral tools covered in the toolkit include the Suitability Filter, Family Indicator Tool, Mode Validation Tool, Financial Viability Indicator, and Value for Money Indicator tool.

IFS also showcased the ‘Contingent Liability Toolkit,’ providing PSAs with a hands-on approach to estimate probable pay-outs due to various contingencies.

The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from officials representing Central Ministries/Departments and various State/UT Governments, particularly Urban Local Bodies, reflecting the collective commitment to advancing the Solid Waste Management sector through strategic PPP structuring.