President Mohamed Nasheed has said that the government would review its selection criteria for electricity subsidies. He made this statement while speaking at a press conference, prior to his departure to Abu Dhabi, India and Bahrain. The press conference was held this morning at the President’s Office.
He said the subsidy policy was based on a survey done between 1997 and 2000, on average household expenditures. Noting that the poverty line was drawn on people who earned a daily income of less than Rf21, President said the government was currently reviewing these criteria.
“I am confident that this income level [to define poverty] can be raised. The government can therefore, provide electricity to greater number of people,” said the President.
At today’s press conference, President Nasheed also revealed the government’s plan to give Rf 50 million loan facility for students pursuing higher education.
He said that the loan facility would help those students studying abroad as well as in the Maldives, facing financial difficulties.
The President also spoke on the progress achieved towards government’s housing pledge.
He said agreement will be signed on 26 January with Thailand’s Preunka Company to build 400 housing units in Hulhumalé and 250 housing units in Malé.
He further said that a contract will soon be closed with TATA Company to build housing units in the provinces.
