India’s 2024/2025 Budget Reading Reveals US$72 Million Earmarked for Maldives

India's Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the 2024/2025 budget, proposing US$72 million in aid to the Maldives, the second-largest grant aid after Bhutan. The initial allocation for 2023/2024 was US$48.1 million, later increased to US$72 million. The aid covers projects including the Thilamalé Bridge (US$100 million grant), Hanimaadhoo International Airport, and a housing project at Hulhumalé via Indian companies. Relations between India and Maldives have soured under President Mohamed Muizzu who visited China before India and signed 20 MoUs with Chinese interests. Disparaging comments by Muizzu administration officials have exacerbated tensions, as the administration signals reduced dependence on India.

India's Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the 2024/2025 budget, proposing US$72 million in aid to the Maldives, the second-largest grant aid after Bhutan. The initial allocation for 2023/2024 was US$48.1 million, later increased to US$72 million. The aid covers projects including the Thilamalé Bridge (US$100 million grant), Hanimaadhoo International Airport, and a housing project at Hulhumalé via Indian companies. Relations between India and Maldives have soured under President Mohamed Muizzu who visited China before India and signed 20 MoUs with Chinese interests. Disparaging comments by Muizzu administration officials have exacerbated tensions, as the administration signals reduced dependence on India.

India's Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the 2024/2025 budget, proposing US$72 million in aid to the Maldives, the second-largest grant aid after Bhutan. The initial allocation for 2023/2024 was US$48.1 million, later increased to US$72 million. The aid covers projects including the Thilamalé Bridge (US$100 million grant), Hanimaadhoo International Airport, and a housing project at Hulhumalé via Indian companies. Relations between India and Maldives have soured under President Mohamed Muizzu who visited China before India and signed 20 MoUs with Chinese interests. Disparaging comments by Muizzu administration officials have exacerbated tensions, as the administration signals reduced dependence on India.

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