Income support deadline nears, 40 percent for women

A woman working in Gahdhoo island. -- Photo: Mohamed Shabin/ Adhadhu

A woman working in Gahdhoo island. -- Photo: Mohamed Shabin/ Adhadhu

The 500 slots to get income support under the covid-19 assistance program targeting private businesses will end this month.

The assistance was announced under the economic ministry’s job center and applications can be submitted through the center’s online portal.

According to the guideline, people aged 18 to 65 who reside in the Maldives and run a private business are eligible to submit applications.

Forty percent of the slots are reserved for women entrepreneurs and funds up to MVR 60,000 (USD 3908) will be provided for businesses in seven categories.

  1. Handicraft
  2. Beauty and makeup
  3. Photography and videography
  4. Sewing and textile work
  5. Information and communication technology
  6. Creative arts and music
  7. Sports and fitness

The guideline states that funds will be disbursed in two installments, with 80 percent of the total amount being provided in the first installment.

However, applicants who need the full amount upfront can explain the reason in their application and it will be processed.

Applicants must also have a bank account and should provide documents to prove their work. The funds will be provided to buy goods or obtain services for small businesses.

Comments

Read More

Latest News

Maldives Gas to take measures due to import issues

Maldives Gas is temporarily reducing the amount of gas in cylinders due to import challenges and rising global prices. Customers will be charged based on the actual weight at existing rates per kilogram. The government is working on a bulk storage project to provide a permanent solution to these supply issues.

Villa College introduces four new programs

Villa College has launched four new programs in teaching, engineering management, and psychology to address national skill shortages in the Maldives. These courses emphasize practical experience and are now open for enrollment for the January 2027 intake. Interested students must apply by December 26, 2026.

MPL says cannot reveal any information of China port deals

Maldives Ports Limited (MPL) has refused to disclose details of major port relocation agreements with a Chinese firm, citing confidentiality and trade secrets. Despite public interest and regional concerns, MPL declined to reveal the contract value or specific terms for the Thilafushi project, which aims to alleviate port congestion.

New group formed to manage all public tertiary hospitals

The Maldives has established the Maldives Tertiary Hospitals Group to manage all public tertiary hospitals under a single governing board. This hybrid centralized model dissolves previous regional boards to unify healthcare services. The 18-member board, led by Dr. Abdul Azeez Yoosuf, will oversee major hospitals and specialized centers.

HDC seizes Riveli Beach Restaurant land due to unpaid rent

HDC has reclaimed the land occupied by Riveli Beach Restaurant in Hulhumale' and terminated its agreement with Solaris Hospitality due to unpaid rent. The operator is now prohibited from conducting business at the site. This decision follows multiple notices and failed opportunities for the company to settle its outstanding arrears.

Maldivian bolsters luxury tourism with new King Air 360 aircraft

Maldivian has acquired a luxury King Air 360 aircraft to provide high-end transport for resort guests. Launched in partnership with Nilaa Coral Island, the eight-seat plane features a pressurized cabin and night-flight capabilities. While primarily serving the new resort, the aircraft is also available for private charters nationwide.

Government workforce increased by 6500 in three years

The government workforce grew by 6,530 employees over the last three years, reaching a total of 55,466. This rapid recruitment has driven the national wage bill to a projected MVR 14.4 billion for next year. The current administration's hiring rate significantly outpaces the previous three-year period.

Newsletter

Get the latest news delivered straight to your inbox