"Dhanduveri Manfaa" scheme to launch in June

The Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Welfare on Wednesday, has announced the introduction of the "Dhanduveri Manfaa" (Agriculture Benefit) matching grant scheme, with the purpose of promoting agriculture and farming.

The matching grant scheme is run by the ministry in association with the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD).

While speaking at the ceremony held to launch the scheme, the ministry's Project Director Shafana Rasheed said a one-month period has been extended for farmers to prepare the necessary documents to submit for the scheme.

The scheme will officially begin accepting proposals on June 25, 2024. Interested proponents can submit their proposals via SME Development Finance Corporation (SDFC)'s portal.

The Minister of Agriculture Dr. Aishath Rameela, while speaking at the ceremony said, efforts in enhancing beneficial opportunities for farmers and agricultural initiatives are among the key mandates of the ministry.

The scheme will be targeting the 26 islands of Haa Dhaal, Haa Dhaal, and Shaviyani atolls with ongoing activities under the Maldives Agri-Business program, which includes individual farmers, civil associations, small-to-medium enterprises, and corporative societies.

The minister further highlighted that the first phase of the scheme will be focused exclusively on agricultural products, which include installation of greenhouses, hydronic systems, and other modern agricultural facilities.

Dr. Rameela said that the future phases will involve extending supplies, cold storage installation and other aspects as well.

"Since the Maldives Agri-Business Program map aims towards empowering women and the youth by raising their awareness to agricultural practices, these demographics will receive prioritization during application evaluation," the minister commented.

Under the Maldives Agri-Business Program, the ministry along with IFAD has established island farmer forums across the 26 islands in three upper-northern atolls and executes regular awareness and training programs.