The Government of India has granted financial support to Government of Maldives to conduct three projects.
In this regard, Government of Maldives allocated USD 388,260 to construct a drug detoxification centre and a community centre in Hulhudhoo in Addu City. The project aims to develop and establish drug treatment and rehabilitation services in Hulhudhoo with a focus on Addu City as a whole.
In addition to development of infrastructure, the project scope also includes developing skills and knowledge of the counsellors, social workers and other technical staff, and strengthen evidence based treatment programme as per the international best practice. At present, there is no rehabilitation service facility available in Hulhudhoo, while there are is a large number of clients waiting for the service.
Furthermore, the government has allocated USD 96,823 to establish proper, safe and regular student ferry services between Fehendhoo and Goidhoo in Baa Atoll. Students from Fehendhoo have been travelling to Goidhoo School in a small dingy, since the Fehendhoo school was closed, due to declining residential population. The current arrangements have been made by the Parents Association and the island council.
However, the condition of this dingy is deteriorating, potentially interrupting the students' access to education. The aim of the project is to provide a long-term sustainable solution, to ensure full and uninterrupted access to education for the students of Fehendhoo.
In addition, the government allocated USD 516,392 to establish ice plants in two islands in Maldives. Under the project, two ice plants of 25 metric tonnes will be established in two islands with large fishing communities, which will help in minimising post-harvest losses of fish, and ensure delivery of good quality fish to fish purchasing companies. The project also includes training of operations and maintenance staff.
The financial support to these projects were provided from the grant assistance of USD 6.9 million granted to Maldives by India during the visit of the Minister of External Affairs of India in March. The aim of the grant assistance is to conduct socio-economic development projects across the country which are of high impact. The projects under this grant will be managed by local authorities.