President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has announced that the Aasandha subsidy for prescription glasses will be doubled from MVR 1,000 to MVR 2,000, with the change taking effect on June 1.

The announcement was made during the World Health Day ceremony held on Thursday night. The President stated that the increase fulfils a key pledge of his Administration and aligns with broader efforts to ensure more inclusive and accessible healthcare for all citizens.

He confirmed that the directive to implement the revised subsidy had been sent to the relevant authorities earlier in the day.

The President also underscored the Administration’s commitment to eliminating corruption within the healthcare system and making efficient use of State resources. He said that savings generated from preventing misuse of funds would be redirected to meet essential public needs, including improvements in healthcare.

The revision to the Aasandha subsidy is part of a wider strategy to expand coverage under the national health insurance scheme. The existing subsidy of MVR 1,000, provided once every two years, has long been seen as insufficient by many recipients.