Green building rating systems are effective for implementing climate change mitigation strategies. GRIHA facilitates implementation of relevant policies of the Government of India, and embeds climate adaptation measures within the design, construction and operational phases of building project development. 17 States provide incentives at municipal levels to projects that certify with GRIHA rating. ClimateSMART Cities Assessment Framework (CSCAF), which is a major culmination of Government of India schemes, provides for implementation of energy efficiency and green buildings through adoption and incentivisation of green building rating systems. However, only 25/100 smart city proposals have included green building rating systems to achieve essential goals. Based on feedback from certification agencies, project proponents, and government officials, there is need for information dissemination and guidance on institutional mechanisms for incentivising green rated projects at the local level. This paper examines existing institutional mechanisms for incentivising GRIHA rated projects, and provides recommendations for municipal bodies to meet relevant CSCAF requirements.