Minister of Fisheries, Marine Resources and Agriculture Zaha Waheed has announced the decision to issue free land plots from 44 islands for a period three years for agricultural purposes.
Speaking at a press conference held at the National Operation Centre (NEOC), Minister Zaha said the decision was made to ensure availability of sufficient food stock in the country and as such, land plots will be issued from the islands for up to three years. She said the administration intends to use up to 25% of the land plots for agricultural purposes, while the land plots will be issued based on a guideline prepared by island councils by collaborating with the Ministry of National Planning and Infrastructure.
Speaking at the press conference, Minister of Economic Development Fayyaz Ismail said the administration intends to produce 50% of food items imported to the country in efforts to rely less on importing food from abroad. He stated the administration expects to produce 17 items of food and increase productivity by up to 50%.
The economic regression caused by COVID-19 has impacted the Maldives and the administration is working towards providing enough food for the country. One such measure has been the decision to develop agriculture in the country and be less dependent on other countries for food items.