As the nation ushers in the holy month of Ramadan, households across the country are already experiencing the tangible benefits of the Government's historic relief package – from essential food supplies to utility discounts and new financial allowances.

Under President Dr Mohamed Muizzu's Administration, which has steadfastly prioritised citizens' most essential needs, preparations for these Ramadan initiatives began months in advance.

A key highlight of this relief package is the distribution of canned tuna, a staple in Maldivian households. To ensure efficiency, the Government announced a structured distribution schedule across Malé, Hulhumalé, and Vilimalé. The distribution commenced on February 20 at five locations but initially faced challenges due to long queues. In response, the Government swiftly expanded the programme to 13 locations and introduced the Roadha Hadhiyaa Portal – a digital platform allowing residents to schedule pickup times through a token system.

The latest phase of the distribution is set for the night of February 28, with further collections resuming from March 2 between 9:30 p.m. and 11:30 p.m. There will be no distribution on March 1. This structured approach ensures a seamless, stress-free process, and officials have assured that distribution will continue until every single household receives its share.

Grocery shopping during Ramadan has also become more affordable, thanks to significant price reductions on essential food items. As part of this proactive approach, the State Trading Organization (STO) was tasked with importing items that typically see price increases during Ramadan, ensuring market stability and affordability. Onions, potatoes, garlic, and other daily staples are now available at lower rates, lifting a huge burden off families striving to prepare nutritious meals without straining their budgets.

To further ease financial pressures, all households will receive a 10 per cent discount on electricity and water bills starting March 1. With longer cooking hours and increased household activity, this reduction comes as a timely and much-needed relief during this period of heightened domestic activity.

Acknowledging the spiritual significance of Ramadan's final ten days, the Government has introduced special working hours for public servants, allowing them to dedicate more time to worship and family – all Government offices will be closed during these last ten days.

In a historic first, members of the Women's Development Committee (WDC) are receiving a dedicated Ramadan allowance, recognising their invaluable contributions to community initiatives.

Additionally, individuals preparing for Umrah in the first six days of Shawwal now have access to an increased credit card limit of USD 1,500, making travel arrangements smoother and more accessible than ever before.

This comprehensive relief package represents the most substantial expenditure any government has allocated specifically for Ramadan in the nation's history. As the first fast of the month approaches, families across the country are already experiencing the tangible benefits of these measures. With financial pressures eased, they can fully embrace the spiritual, communal, and celebratory aspects of Ramadan with greater peace of mind.