India and Maldives Sign 13 MoUs for Maritime Ferry Services
In News
What Happened
Why It Matters
Background
History & Context
What Changed
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BEFORE: Inter-island mobility was limited and highly dependent on fragmented, expensive private transport, which hindered local economic integration. NOW: The 13 MoUs backed by an MVR 100 million grant will build out a structured national ferry network, significantly boosting affordable maritime connectivity.
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BEFORE: Previous HICDP phases primarily focused on localized community centers, health facilities, and schooling infrastructure. NOW: Phase 3 of the HICDP explicitly expands its scope toward larger-scale maritime infrastructure and inter-island connectivity to drive broader economic development.
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BEFORE: Foreign infrastructure projects have often burdened the Maldives with debt, raising concerns over economic sovereignty. NOW: India's MVR 100 million intervention is structured as a direct grant under the HICDP, avoiding debt traps while delivering high-impact community benefits.
Prelims Angle
NCERT Connection
Practice Questions
Q1
Correct Statement(s)Which of the following statements regarding the High Impact Community Development Project (HICDP) agreements between India and the Maldives is/are correct? 1. The recent 13 MoUs under the HICDP phase 3 are primarily funded through a high-interest loan provided by the Asian Development Bank. 2. The agreements aim to enhance the Maldives' national ferry network to boost inter-island maritime connectivity.