Jaishankar Launches Maldives’ Largest India-Funded Sanitation Project
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has inaugurated the Maldives’ largest sanitation project funded by India, valued at approximately Rs 923 crore (USD 110 million). This extensive initiative aims to provide critical water and sanitation services to 28 islands, representing seven percent of the Maldives’ population.
During a three-day official visit, Jaishankar virtually inaugurated the project at a ceremony held at President Mohammad Muizzu’s office. The Water and Sanitation Projects, financed under the Indian Line of Credit Facility by the Exim Bank of India, have been hailed as the “largest climate adaptation implemented in the Maldives with international collaboration.”
Jaishankar emphasized the significance of the project in supporting the Maldives’ Sustainable Development Goals. “The completion of this project underscores our commitment to establishing climate-resilient and cost-effective water and sewerage systems,” he noted.
President Muizzu expressed his gratitude, highlighting the enduring partnership between India and the Maldives. “I thank the Government of India, especially Prime Minister Narendra Modi, for their continuous support. Our collaboration strengthens through efforts in security, development, and cultural exchange,” Muizzu said on X.
The initiative will enhance access to safe drinking water for many islands and introduce sewerage systems in others, directly benefiting over 28,000 Maldivians. According to a statement from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), the project now provides essential services to 28,298 beneficiaries across seven percent of the Maldivian population.
At the inauguration, Jaishankar handed over completed projects to the Maldives’ Foreign Minister, Moosa Zameer. These include water supply facilities on 22 islands, sewerage facilities on two islands, and combined facilities on four islands.
Jaishankar highlighted India’s commitment to expanding development cooperation. “Our partnership is driven by the needs of the Maldives and includes grants, loans, and capacity-building support,” he said. The projects align with India’s domestic initiatives like ‘Har Ghar Jal’ and ‘Swachh Bharat,’ focusing on sustainable solutions for freshwater access and sewage treatment.
The sanitation project also incorporates solar energy, supporting island grids and contributing to climate resilience. Jaishankar remarked, “This initiative will significantly improve the lives of women who bear the primary burden of fetching clean water.”
India-Maldives development cooperation reflects the motto: ‘Imagined by Maldives, Delivered by India.’ Jaishankar affirmed that this collaboration will mark a significant milestone in the bilateral relationship.
