Overview
- India will replace its military personnel in the Maldives with civilian technical staff to operate three aircraft providing humanitarian services.
- The replacement process is set to begin on March 10 and conclude by May 10, following a formal request from the Maldives government.
- Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu has emphasized ending the country's dependence on India, seeking alternatives for education, health services, and imports.
- The Indian government has increased its budgetary allocation for the Maldives to Rs 779 crore, reaffirming its commitment as a development partner.
- Tensions have escalated since Muizzu's election, marked by a pro-China stance and social media controversies involving Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.