Disability grant increases to MVR 3000, with additional allowances

The government announces decision to increase the disability allowance to MVR 3000, and introduce additional allowances as well.

Until now the allowance amount has remained unchanged at MVR 2000, since its introduction 12 years ago.

President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih decided on Tuesday to revise the disability allowance and introduce additional allowances. These changes were recommended by the cabinet after deliberating on a paper submitted by the Ministry of Gender, Family and Social Services.

In press conference ongoing at the President’s Office, the Gender Ministry stated that different levels have been set in order to increase the allowance, and that President Solih has decided to increase the amount up to MVR 6000.

With the changes, those with disabilities would get a minimum amount of MVR 3000. The ministry said that the from June onwards, a 50 percent increase in the allowance.

Under the revised framework:

-     Financial assistance: from MVR 2000 to MVR 3000

-     Additional allowance of MVR 2000 for those with disabilities that are unable to care for themselves under the age of 65

-     Allowance of MVR 1000 for purchasing basic necessities: this category is for those under 65 years of age

-     An additional allowance of MVR 1000 for households with more than one person who has disabilities

According to the estimations of the Gender Ministry, about 58 percent of people registered to the national disability registry will receive the allowance given based on their circumstances.