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India and the Maldives signed agreements to equip fitness and recreation centres across 42 islands. The project widens community development ties while prioritising women, girls and youth.
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Male,UPDATED: Jul 20, 2026 14:08 IST
India and the Maldives on Sunday signed agreements under which New Delhi will provide equipment support for fitness and recreation centres in 42 islands, expanding bilateral development cooperation. The Maldives' foreign ministry said the move is aimed at improving access to fitness facilities across island communities.
The ministry said the agreements will focus on women, girls and youth, while promoting healthier lifestyles and community well-being. The project is being implemented with India's grant assistance under the High Impact Community Development Project, whose total outlay has been increased over the years to MVR 355 million (USD 22.9 million).
The Memoranda of Understanding were signed in Male by Maldivian Foreign Minister Iruthisham Adam, Indian High Commissioner G Balasubramanian and Maldives' Youth Empowerment, Sports and Fitness Minister Abdulla Rafiu, according to a press statement issued by the ministry.
Speaking at the ceremony, Adam said the initiative represented "a meaningful investment in the health and well-being of island communities" and would contribute to women's empowerment, equality and social inclusion. She also thanked the Indian government and its people, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar for their continued support in strengthening bilateral ties.
Launched in 2019, the High Impact Community Development Project supports community-driven projects implemented by local councils and institutions across the Maldives. The ministry said 56 projects have been approved under the scheme across the country, of which 24 have been completed and inaugurated.
India has been one of the Maldives' principal development partners, supporting projects in healthcare, housing, transport, connectivity, education and infrastructure. Major Indian-assisted initiatives include the Greater Male Connectivity Project, the Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital, the College for Police and Law Enforcement, water and sanitation projects, airport redevelopment, and the construction of 4,000 social housing units. The new agreements add to that cooperation by backing fitness and recreation facilities in 42 islands.
With PTI Inputs
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Published By:
India Today Web Desk
Published On:
Jul 20, 2026 14:08 IST
