PM Modi Expands ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ Initiative In Maldives; Strengthens Bilateral Ties

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu jointly planted mango saplings in Male, symbolising a shared commitment to environmental preservation.

The initiative combined India’s ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ campaign with the Maldives’ ‘Pledge of 5 Million Tree Plantation’ programme. PM Modi underscored both nations’ dedication to addressing climate change and promoting sustainability.

Taking to X, PM Modi posted, “India and the Maldives fully understand the challenges of climate change and environmental degradation. And, we are committed to doing everything possible to boost sustainability. This evening in Malé, President Muizzu and I planted saplings, strengthening ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ (a tree for Mother) initiative and Pledge of 5 million Tree Plantation of the Maldives Government.”

Strengthening Bilateral Cooperation

In addition to environmental efforts, PM Modi and President Muizzu jointly inaugurated the new Ministry of Defence (MoD) building in Male.

The 11-storey structure, built with Indian financial assistance, symbolises the deep-rooted defence and security cooperation between the two nations. Overlooking the Indian Ocean, it will enhance the Maldives’ defence capabilities.

PM Modi also handed over two units of the Aarogya Maitri Health Cube (BHISHM), India’s deployable medical aid system.

Each cube can treat up to 200 people and sustain medical teams for up to 72 hours during emergencies. Modi described BHISHM as a symbol of India’s compassion-driven healthcare support.

Key Agreements & Assistance

The leaders oversaw the exchange of six Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) in diverse sectors, including,

• Fisheries and aquaculture
• Meteorology
• Digital public infrastructure
• UPI-based digital payments
• Indian pharmacopoeia
• Concessional Line of Credit

India extended a fresh Line of Credit worth ₹4,850 crore (approximately USD 550 million) to the Maldives, targeting infrastructure and development initiatives.

A revised agreement also reduced the Maldives’ annual debt repayment by 40%, easing financial pressure.

Additionally, both nations agreed on the Terms of Reference for a proposed Free Trade Agreement (FTA), signalling efforts to boost bilateral trade and investment.

PM Modi virtually inaugurated a roads and drainage system project in Addu City, along with six High Impact Community Development Projects across other regions.

He also handed over 3,300 social housing units and 72 vehicles for the Maldives National Defence Force and Immigration authorities, further strengthening people-centric cooperation.

Prime Minister Modi’s engagements in the Maldives reflect India’s continued commitment to the Neighbourhood First policy and to fostering strong, sustainable partnerships in the Indian Ocean Region.

His visit reinforces India’s role as a trusted friend and key development partner of the Maldives.

Also Read: PM Modi Reaffirms India-Maldives Friendship, Announces Key Projects & Investments