Government Outlines Subsidy Reforms to Target Eligible Recipients

In an interview with PSM News, Deputy Minister Saaid detailed the reforms slated for implementation this year. He acknowledged that when the current administration assumed office, the groundwork for these changes had been laid out conceptually in the budget. However, the technical preparations and action plans necessary for their execution were still pending.

Emphasizing the government's commitment to equitable subsidy distribution, Saaid underscored that financial assistance would be distributed impartially, particularly targeting disadvantaged individuals across the Maldives. He reaffirmed the administration's dedication to fiscal responsibility, ensuring that subsidies align with principles of fairness and efficiency.

Recent government figures indicate that the subsidy budget for the year amounts to USD 182 million, with USD 110 million already disbursed. Furthermore, the national health insurance scheme, Aasandha, is projected to utilize USD 123 million this year, of which USD 60 million has been allocated thus far.