India grants assistance to purchase ambulances to 11, build gyms at 61 islands

India has granted financial assistance to purchase and deliver land ambulances to 11 Maldivian islands and procure outdoor fitness equipment for 61 islands.

The funds were released under the grant assistance of USD 6.93 million signed-off by India to Maldives for socio-economic projects during Indian External Affairs Sushma Swaraj’s visit to Maldives from March 17-18.

MVR 7.7 million has been released to purchase and deliver the ambulances to the 11 Maldivian islands.

Establishing ambulance services at every inhabited Maldivian island is one the current government’s pledges. The government reports it is committed to improving health services across Maldives and improving the accessibility of services.

An additional MVR 8 million has been released to procure the outdoor fitness equipment which will be installed in 61 Maldivian islands.

The government reports that the purpose of the project is to promote a healthy lifestyle and fight the burden of non-communicable diseases in Maldives as per the government’s pledge.

Grant assistance by India has been utilized for multiple projects across Maldives. They include the construction of classrooms in N. Lhohi and R. Kinolhas, establishment of an emergency medical services unit at the H. A. Ihavandhoo health center, construction of an international-standard convention center in A. A. Ukulhas, and development of the police training school in Dh. Vaanee.