Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu marked a significant milestone in bilateral relations today by jointly inaugurating the newly constructed Ministry of Defence (MoD) building in Male. This eleven-storey structure, strategically overlooking the Indian Ocean, stands as a testament to the enduring defence and security partnership between India and the Maldives. Built with India’s financial assistance, the facility is set to bolster the capabilities of Maldives’ defence and law enforcement agencies.
Following the inauguration of the Dhoshimeynaa Building, both leaders explored a model of the structure and gained insights into its operational functions. The project, which began construction on February 19, 2014, will primarily serve as the headquarters for the Coast Guard division of the Maldivian Defence Ministry. This initiative underscores India’s commitment to supporting the Maldives in safeguarding its maritime security.
In addition to infrastructure development, India has taken a significant step in enhancing the Maldives’ emergency healthcare capabilities. Two advanced portable hospital units, known as ‘Arogya Maitri Health Cubes’, have been formally handed over. These modular hospitals are the world’s first fully transportable medical units, equipped with state-of-the-art facilities to handle emergencies in remote locations.
Each unit includes an ICU, operation theatre, blood diagnostic tools, X-ray machines, and a power generator. Designed for rapid deployment, these hospitals can be airlifted by helicopter and become fully operational in just 12 minutes. They are capable of providing critical care to around 200 people for up to 72 hours, making them invaluable during disasters or health crises.
To streamline operations, India has also introduced the BHISHM app, a digital platform that helps configure equipment and monitor inventories. The Maldives Emergency Medical Service will manage these units, integrating them into the nation’s emergency response system. This move highlights India’s ongoing dedication to improving healthcare infrastructure and readiness in the region.
India’s support for the Maldivian health sector has been comprehensive, ranging from training medical professionals to developing health facilities across urban and atoll regions. During the Covid-19 pandemic, India played a crucial role by supplying vaccines swiftly, further solidifying its role as a reliable partner in times of need.
The inauguration of the MoD building and the delivery of portable hospitals reflect India’s broader strategy of fostering cooperation in defence, healthcare, and regional stability. These initiatives not only strengthen the bilateral relationship but also highlight India’s proactive approach to supporting its neighbors in critical sectors.