India’s S Jaishankar Hands Over $110 Million Water Project to Maldives
Male [Maldives], August 11: External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar handed over a significant water and sanitation project worth USD 110 million to the Maldives. The project, funded by India, spans 28 islands.
Virtual Inauguration
During his three-day visit to Male from August 9-11, Jaishankar virtually inaugurated the project. He emphasized that the development partnership between India and the Maldives is focused on the needs and priorities of the Maldivian people and government.
Addressing Climate Change
Jaishankar highlighted the challenges posed by climate change, especially for small island developing states like the Maldives. He stressed the importance of addressing freshwater resource availability and access, aligning the initiative with India’s own programs, ‘Har Ghar Jal’ (Water to Every Home) and ‘Swachha Bharat’ (Clean India).
“Our objective is to provide ecologically sustainable low-cost solutions to our development partners,” said Jaishankar. The project has brought safe drinking water to 32 islands and introduced a sewerage system in 17 islands, directly impacting the lives of 28,000 Maldivians.
Technological Advancements
The project uses the latest technologies to provide clean drinking water and safe sewerage disposal. Buildings are also equipped with solar energy to support island grids. This is the largest climate adaptation project in the Maldives with international collaboration.
Impact on Women
Jaishankar expressed optimism that the project will improve the lives of women on the islands, who are primarily responsible for fetching clean water. He noted that the project supports the Maldives’ Sustainable Development Goals by establishing climate-resilient and cost-effective water and sewerage systems.
Strengthening India-Maldives Relations
Earlier, Jaishankar met with Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu, reaffirming India’s commitment to strengthening relations between the two nations. President Muizzu thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Indian government for their support, highlighting the enduring partnership between New Delhi and Male.
Jaishankar’s visit marks his first to the Maldives after his re-appointment for a second term, following President Muizzu’s recent visit to India for the swearing-in ceremony of the new Cabinet and Council of Ministers.
Doubts Revealed
S Jaishankar -: S Jaishankar is India’s External Affairs Minister. He is responsible for managing India’s relationships with other countries.
$110 million -: $110 million is a large amount of money, equal to about 900 crore rupees. It is being used to fund the water and sanitation project in the Maldives.
Maldives -: The Maldives is a small island country in the Indian Ocean, known for its beautiful beaches and clear blue waters.
climate change -: Climate change refers to long-term changes in temperature and weather patterns. It can cause problems like rising sea levels and extreme weather.
freshwater resource availability -: Freshwater resource availability means having enough clean water for drinking, cooking, and other daily needs. It is very important for health and well-being.
‘Har Ghar Jal’ -: ‘Har Ghar Jal’ is an Indian government program that aims to provide clean tap water to every household in India.
‘Swachha Bharat’ -: ‘Swachha Bharat’ means ‘Clean India’. It is a campaign by the Indian government to clean the streets, roads, and infrastructure of the country.
Mohamed Muizzu -: Mohamed Muizzu is the President of the Maldives. He is the leader of the country and works with other nations to improve the Maldives.
bilateral relations -: Bilateral relations are the relationships between two countries. In this case, it refers to the friendship and cooperation between India and the Maldives.
