This week, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in collaboration with the High Commission of India in Maldives, conducted a two-day meeting to review ongoing High Impact Community Development Projects (HICDPs) funded by Indian grant aid. Co-chaired by Ambassador at Large Ahmed Naseer and Indian High Commissioner Munu Mahawar, the review highlighted 65 projects worth USD 23 million (MVR 360 million) aimed at addressing local community needs.
These projects, selected by the Maldivian government, include drug detoxification centres, tourism zones, sea ambulances, and the upgrading of Olympus Hall in Malé. The initiatives, implemented by local institutions, are designed to empower local communities and support the government’s decentralisation efforts.
Notable completed projects include the Drug Detoxification Centre in Hulhudhoo and the Mulimathi Tourism Zone in Meedhoo, both inaugurated by India’s Minister of External Affairs, Dr S Jaishankar, in March 2022. Other significant projects include the establishment of a prosthetics and orthotics workshop in Hulhumalé Hospital and various tourism zones in Addu City.
The HICDPs are part of a broader Indian grant assistance programme, which has grown from an initial USD 5.5 million (MVR 85 million) in 2019 to USD 16.5 million (MVR 255 million) by January 2023. Additional cash grant projects worth over USD 7 million (MVR 107 million) include the establishment of outdoor gyms, an international conference centre, and the upgrading of schools.
Regular joint review sessions ensure that these projects meet high standards and are completed on schedule, reflecting the strong collaborative relationship between the Maldives and India in fostering sustainable community development.
