India Donates Measles Vaccines and Medical Supplies to Support the Maldives

India has donated 20,000 doses of measles vaccine and nearly three tonnes of medical supplies to support the Maldives’ efforts to contain the ongoing measles outbreak.

The consignment was officially handed over during a ceremony held at the Ministry of Health on Thursday. Indian High Commissioner G. Balasubramanian presented the vaccines and medical supplies on behalf of the Government of India, while Health Minister Geela Ali accepted the donation on behalf of the Maldivian government.

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According to the Indian government, the assistance is intended to strengthen the Maldives’ vaccination programme and enhance the country’s public health response to the outbreak.

India stated that the support reflects its commitment to the Maldives under its “Neighbourhood First” policy and “MAHASAGAR” vision, under which the Maldives remains a priority partner.

The Indian government also reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the Maldives during times of need and highlighted the longstanding cooperation between the two countries in the health sector.

The Maldives and India have maintained close collaboration in healthcare over the years. India has previously contributed to the training of Maldivian healthcare professionals, facilitated emergency medical evacuations, and supplied large quantities of vaccines during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Officials said the latest donation underscores the strong bilateral relationship between the two countries and their continued cooperation in addressing public health challenges.