India and Sri Lanka reviewed progress on bilateral power projects during a meeting in New Delhi led by Union Power and Housing and Urban Affairs Minister Manohar Lal and Sri Lanka’s Ports and Civil Aviation and Energy Minister Anura Karunathilake. The ministers examined developments related to the proposed India–Sri Lanka high-voltage direct current (HVDC) interconnection and the Sampur Solar Power Project as part of efforts to deepen regional energy cooperation. The discussion addressed technical, regulatory and institutional dimensions needed to advance the initiatives.

They explored opportunities to expand cross-border electricity trade and cooperation in renewable energy, transmission infrastructure and capacity building. The agenda included mechanisms to facilitate bilateral exchanges, align grid operations and improve planning for variable renewable generation. Both sides identified mutual interest in strengthening frameworks for commercial and operational coordination.

India shared experience in developing transmission systems through the tariff-based competitive bidding (TBCB) framework that uses a public–private partnership model and outlined aspects that could inform joint initiatives. The two sides considered areas for collaboration on procurement, project structuring and skills development to support project delivery. Officials noted the potential for greater connectivity to enhance regional grid stability and efficient use of renewable resources.

Discussions emphasised strengthening energy security and supporting the clean energy transition across the region while reviewing progress under existing bilateral mechanisms. Senior Indian officials attending included Pankaj Agarwal, Secretary, Ministry of Power, and other ministry representatives. The Sri Lankan delegation was led by Mahishini Colonne, High Commissioner of Sri Lanka to India, and included senior ministry officials.

The meeting followed a recent visit to Colombo by Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, which reiterated India’s commitment under its Neighbourhood First policy and Vision MAHASAGAR, and built on understandings reached during the Sri Lankan President’s December 2024 visit and agreements formalised during the Indian Prime Minister’s April 2025 visit to Sri Lanka. Both governments signalled intent to continue consultations and technical exchanges to operationalise projects and deepen cooperation in power trade, transmission and renewable deployment.