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India is projected to provide the largest share of direct foreign government grants to the Maldives in 2027, accounting for nearly half of the estimated total assistance.
Mariyam Adheela
MALE’: India is expected to remain the Maldives’ largest source of direct foreign government grants in 2027, with an estimated contribution of MVR 26.8 million, according to the proposed state budget submitted to Parliament.
The government’s 2027 budget estimates project that the Maldives will receive a total of MVR 55.4 million, approximately USD 3.6 million, in direct grants from foreign governments during the year.
India’s projected contribution represents the largest share of the estimated assistance, highlighting its continued role as a major bilateral development partner of the Maldives.
The budget figures also show that India was the largest contributor of bilateral grants in 2026.
The Maldives received MVR 365.6 million in bilateral grants during 2026, of which MVR 105.7 million came from India.
The figures indicate that direct grant assistance from foreign governments is projected to decline significantly in 2027 compared with the amount received in 2026.
India’s development assistance to the Maldives has supported various areas, including social infrastructure, public healthcare and social development programmes.
The assistance is also linked to India’s Neighbourhood First policy, which prioritises cooperation and development partnerships with neighbouring countries.
The proposed 2027 budget reflects the government’s estimates of foreign grant revenue for the coming year, while highlighting the expected contribution of bilateral partners to the country’s development priorities.
