In a significant step for bilateral relations, India has delivered its first high-speed ferry to the Maldives on February 25, 2026. Named “Dhivehi Vehi No. 101,” the vessel was handed over at the Malé port amid a ceremony attended by officials from both nations. Built by India’s GRSE (Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers) in Kolkata, this 50-meter ferry can carry 250 passengers and 20 vehicles at speeds up to 35 knots (about 65 km/h).
The ferry addresses Maldives’ urgent need for reliable transport across its 1,200 coral islands, spread over 90,000 sq km of ocean. Frequent rough seas often delay ferries, stranding tourists and locals. This new one cuts travel time between key atolls like Malé and Hulhumalé from 90 minutes to just 30 minutes. Costing around $8 million (Rs. 67 crore), it’s equipped with modern safety features like advanced navigation, life-saving gear, and eco-friendly engines meeting IMO standards.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed it as a “gift of friendship” during a virtual address, underscoring India’s “Neighborhood First” policy. Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu reciprocated, noting it strengthens people-to-people ties. This delivery follows India’s recent aid, including $50 million for water projects and 100,000 COVID vaccines in 2021.
Experts see it as countering China’s growing influence in the Indian Ocean region, where Beijing has funded bridges and ports. India-Maldives trade hit $500 million in 2025, with tourism from India surging 25% post-pandemic. The ferry will boost this, supporting Maldives’ economy, which relies on 1.5 million tourists yearly. This move highlights India’s shipbuilding prowess—GRSE has exported vessels worth $200 million since 2020. More ferries are planned, promising faster connectivity and deeper Indo-Maldivian bonds.
FAQs [Frequently Asked Questions]
1. What is the capacity and speed of the new ferry?
The “Dhivehi Vehi No. 101” carries 250 passengers and 20 vehicles, reaching speeds of 35 knots (65 km/h), slashing travel times across Maldivian atolls.
2. Who built the ferry and at what cost?
India’s GRSE in Kolkata built it for about $8 million (Rs. 67 crore), featuring advanced safety and eco-friendly tech for reliable service.
3. Why is this delivery important for Maldives?
It improves transport amid rough seas, aiding tourism and locals; Maldives depends on 1.5 million tourists yearly for its economy.
4. How does this fit into India-Maldives relations?
It supports India’s “Neighborhood First” policy, countering rivals like China, with trade at $500 million and rising tourism ties.