Dr Shaji Krishnan V, Chairman, NABARD, led a fireside chat on 'From Policy to Practice: Unlocking the Next Wave of WASH Finance in India' at the India Water Credit Forum 2026, observing that India's next phase of progress in Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) must move beyond expanding access to ensuring reliable, climate-resilient and sustainable water systems through innovative financing.

He emphasised the need to strengthen partnerships, leverage blended finance, enhance institutional capacity and mobilise private capital to accelerate investments in resilient WASH infrastructure, water security and long-term service delivery. 

Reaffirming NABARD's commitment to sustainable rural development, Dr Shaji highlighted the institution's catalytic role in fostering innovative financing models and collaborative partnerships that can accelerate inclusive and resilient WASH outcomes.

The fireside chat featured Ms Vedika Bhandarkar, President and Chief Operating Officer, Water.org, as the co-speaker and was moderated by Tamal Bandyopadhyay, Consulting Editor, Business Standard. Organised by Water.org, the India WaterCredit Forum 2026 brought together leaders from finance, microfinance institutions (MFIs), non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and government to advance market-driven, blended finance solutions for safe water and sanitation in India.