Health Minister Abdulla Nazim Ibrahim stated that the monthly operating cost of the government-operated eyeglass shop at Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital (IGMH) is MVR 3.46 million.

In a written reply to an inquiry from Galolhu North MP Mohamed Ibrahim (Kudu) of the MDP, the minister stated that the shop’s annual recurrent expenditure amounts to MVR 3,456,212.67.

The preliminary arrangement, which encompassed building and equipment, amounted to approximately MVR 2.6 million. MP Mohamed inquired about both the operational expenses of the store and the reasons for its creation.

Minister Nazim stated that the government launched the service to offer affordable prescription eyewear, noting the elevated costs imposed by private companies.

“Aasandha provides MVR 1,000 biennially for individuals who use prescription glasses, causing many to incur additional expenses in the thousands,” he stated.

Upon the launch of the service, President Dr Mohamed Muizzu declared his commitment to preventing its exploitation for profit.

"If the coverage increases from MVR 1,000 to MVR 2,000, there will be no space for these practices." This work will commence at IGMH. "We will launch the eyewear business at IGMH," he stated on May 31.

The President noted that although private eyewear companies could be dissatisfied with the ruling, it was essential to stop “the practice of businesses taking advantage of people from this country.”