India Strengthens Island Connectivity With Maldives Ferry Gift

Strategic ferry handover to Maldives

India Strengthens Island Connectivity With Maldives Ferry Gift: India gifted the Maldives its first high-speed ferry under the High Impact Community Development Project (HICDP) Phase III, marking a key step in bilateral cooperation. The ferry will operate under the Raajje Transport Link (RTL) network, connecting Faafu and Dhaalu Atolls. This project enhances mobility across dispersed islands and improves access to essential services.

The ferry is part of a broader commitment to deliver 12 high-speed vessels, strengthening marine transport infrastructure. The initiative demonstrates India’s role as a reliable development partner in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).

Static GK fact: The Maldives is an archipelago of about 1,192 coral islands, grouped into 26 atolls, making maritime transport essential for connectivity.

Grant assistance and project framework

The ferry project is funded through a grant of MVR 100 million (approximately ₹55 crore) under the HICDP Phase III agreement signed in January 2025. India and Maldives also signed 13 Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) to expand ferry services and community infrastructure.

India has contributed USD 29.5 million across four HICDP phases, supporting sectors like healthcare, coastal protection, transport, sports, and education. These projects focus on grassroots development and livelihood improvement.

The ferry system will improve transportation reliability and reduce isolation of remote islands. It also supports economic activities like fisheries and tourism, which are vital to Maldives’ economy.

Static GK Tip: The capital of Maldives is Malé, located in the Kaafu Atoll, and it is one of the most densely populated cities globally.

Importance of Raajje Transport Link network

The Raajje Transport Link (RTL) is a nationwide ferry network designed to provide affordable and efficient transport between islands. It addresses geographical challenges caused by scattered islands separated by large ocean distances.

The ferry network improves access to education, healthcare, and employment opportunities. It also strengthens economic integration between island communities.

RTL supports sustainable development by promoting safe and affordable marine transportation. This aligns with Maldives’ long-term national development priorities.

Role in Neighbourhood First policy and maritime strategy

The ferry initiative aligns with India’s Neighbourhood First policy, which prioritizes cooperation with neighboring countries. It also supports India’s maritime vision under Vision MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions).

High-level visits between leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Maldives visit in July 2025 and President Mohamed Muizzu’s India visit in October 2024, strengthened diplomatic relations. These engagements highlight improving strategic and economic cooperation.

Maldives holds significant importance due to its location along key global sea lanes in the Indian Ocean, which are critical for international trade and energy transport.

Static GK fact: The Indian Ocean is the third-largest ocean and handles nearly 80% of global maritime oil trade, making it strategically important.

Strategic and economic significance

The ferry project strengthens India’s influence in the Indian Ocean Region while supporting Maldives’ economic growth. Improved connectivity enhances trade, tourism, and community welfare.

This initiative reflects India’s commitment to regional stability and cooperative development. It also reinforces India’s role as a key maritime partner in South Asia.

Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table

India Strengthens Island Connectivity With Maldives Ferry Gift: