President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has announced that Aasandha will fully cover all mental health expenses from 1 January 2026.
He made the announcement at the ‘Rayyithunnaa Eku Kuriah – Hafthaa 104’ function held at the Maldives Centre for Social Education (MCSE) to mark the Administration’s second anniversary.
Reflecting the Administration’s focus on compassion and care, the President stated that the ‘A Family for Every Child’ programme was launched to eliminate child abuse and neglect in society. He noted that 101 children under State care have already been placed with loving families through this initiative.
Building on the Government’s policy to create an inclusive society for people with disabilities, President Dr Muizzu highlighted that the Administration has employed 333 people with disabilities through government companies and the civil service.
He also acknowledged that the Home for People with Special Needs in K. Guraidhoo had not previously received adequate attention. For the first time in Maldivian history, a project worth MVR 50 million has been launched to develop the centre.
Emphasising the Administration’s commitment to women’s empowerment, the President highlighted significant ongoing initiatives ranging from preventing domestic violence to providing employment opportunities. Highlighting the government’s dedication to social security, he announced that the allowance for single parents will be increased next year to MVR 3,000 per child, up to MVR 12,000.
Additionally, the President stated that Aasandha coverage for prescription glasses has been doubled, enabling the Government to provide quality services to the public without additional expenditure. He noted that, while the initiative faced some resistance, it was taken in the best interests of the people.
He also underlined that social protection for senior citizens remains a top priority for his Administration, with a Memorandum of Understanding recently signed to establish a Senior Citizens Centre in Addu City.
