Over 400 Apply for Land Under New Spouse Ownership Rule

More than 400 individuals have applied for land under a new housing scheme rule that allows applications even if a spouse already owns a home. The Ministry of Construction, Housing and Infrastructure confirmed 418 applications have been received since the process began on March 8. The policy, announced in this year's Presidential Address, aims to address public concerns about eligibility restrictions in past housing programs. Its core objective is to ensure every family has access to housing by allowing one spouse to apply for land even if the other already owns a house or flat. Under the broader "Goathi Gedhoru" scheme, the government will allocate 1,250 plots of land. Applicants are divided into two categories: residents of Malé City and residents of other islands. The ministry has published all relevant regulations, required documentation, and point-based award criteria in the Government Gazette. The application window for this scheme will remain open until April 30, providing an opportunity for more families to seek housing solutions under the revised eligibility framework.