Addressing the people of Nilandhoo and Maamendhoo of North Huvadhu Atoll this morning, President Mohamed Nasheed has said the benefits and progress resulting from the government’s policies were now evident in all areas of the country.
He said these policies were based on the government’s electoral pledges that reflected the most immediate needs of the people that became clear to ruling MDP during their pre-election visits to the islands and consultations with people.
The President said one of the pledges of the government was increasing value of fish sold to the market by local fishermen.
He noted that the value of fish has significantly increased following the government’s decision to open up local fishing industry and allowing any small and medium enterprise to buy fish directly from fishermen.
Meeting the people in Nilandhoo as well as Maamendhoo, the President underscored the social and economic benefits of the government’s programmes especially its social security programme.
He said 153 Nilandhoo residents and 219 Maamendhoo residents were insured by the Madhana health insurance programme, while 62 Nilandhoo residents and 67 Maamendhoo residents received the old age pension.
In his address to people of Maamendhoo, the President revealed that the government would commence constructing the island’s harbour this year.
