Maldives Disburses $3.79 Million in Disability Aid as Enrollment Grows

The Maldivian government disbursed USD 3.79 million in financial assistance to persons with disabilities last month, reflecting a steady increase in state support. According to official data from the National Social Protection Agency (NSPA), the payout surpasses the USD 3.68 million provided in July. This rise in expenditure follows an expansion of the national registry, which saw 169 new enrollments. The total number of registered individuals has now reached 15,665, consisting of 9,057 men and 6,608 women. Out of this group, 15,498 beneficiaries received direct financial disbursements. Demographic data indicates that working-age adults between 18 and 64 years old form the largest segment of the registry, totaling 7,944 individuals. In terms of disability classifications, physical impairments are the most prevalent, affecting 4,240 people. Other significant categories include multiple disabilities (3,548), psychiatric conditions (2,508), and hearing and speech impairments (1,869). Additionally, 1,812 individuals are registered with cognitive conditions, 1,033 with visual impairments, 594 with autism spectrum conditions, and 61 with learning disabilities. Beyond direct cash transfers, the state has invested heavily in specialized healthcare. Agency records show that USD 527,410.18 was spent on therapeutic treatments for 499 individuals. The vast majority of these recipients are children, with 481 pediatric patients under the age of 18 accessing these critical services. Therapeutic support was distributed across several disciplines to address diverse needs. Occupational therapy was the most utilized service, assisting 145 individuals, followed by behavioral therapy (140), speech therapy (113), and educational therapy (73). Further specialized support was provided through psychotherapy, physiotherapy, and early intervention services, ensuring a comprehensive approach to disability care across the archipelago.