President of the Republic of Maldives, His Excellency Dr Mohamed Muizzu, and Prime Minister of the Republic of India, His Excellency Shri Narendra Modi, officially inaugurated the newly constructed Dhoshimeyna Building, the latest addition to the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF)’s infrastructure. The inauguration was held during Prime Minister Modi’s official state visit to the Maldives and reflects ongoing bilateral cooperation in strengthening institutional capacity and national resilience.
The ceremony took place at the building site located along Boduthakurufaanu Magu in Malé. Upon arrival, Prime Minister Modi was warmly received by President Muizzu. The event began with a video presentation that showcased the building’s construction timeline, architectural layout, and intended use. Following the screening, the two leaders jointly unveiled the building and participated in a guided tour of the facility. They also viewed a detailed model of the structure and were briefed on the operational functions and services the building will support.
Developed with the support of the Government of India, the 10-storey Dhoshimeyna Building will serve as the new headquarters for the Coast Guard division of the Ministry of Defence. Construction of the building commenced on 19 February 2014, and its completion marks a major step in expanding and modernising the Maldives’ defence infrastructure. The inauguration symbolizes more than the completion of a physical structure, it demonstrates continued regional cooperation and the shared commitment between India and the Maldives to strengthening security capabilities in the Indian Ocean.
The Maldives Coast Guard, established 45 years ago, plays a central role in safeguarding the nation’s maritime and aerial territory, as well as protecting its Special Economic Zone (SEZ). In addition to conventional naval responsibilities, the Coast Guard conducts search and rescue operations, maritime law enforcement, and emergency response missions across the archipelago and beyond into international waters.
The Coast Guard operates under the Armed Forces Act, which authorizes it to act as the country’s principal maritime security agency. With its four regional operational commands, the force conducts sea and air patrols using its own fleet and subordinate squadrons. A key facility supporting these efforts is the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre, tasked with managing search and rescue missions during maritime and aerial incidents.
In line with its evolving responsibilities, the Coast Guard also contributes to emergency medical transport, ensuring patients can be quickly evacuated between islands. Additionally, a specialised unit known as the Special Boat Squadron has been formed to execute high-risk maritime operations.
With its strategic location and modern design, the Dhoshimeyna Building is expected to enhance operational efficiency, coordination, and response capacity within the MNDF. It will support administrative and tactical functions, improve training facilities, and provide advanced working environments for personnel managing maritime security in the Maldives’ vast ocean territory.
The inauguration of this facility as part of Prime Minister Modi’s state visit reflects broader India–Maldives collaboration not only in defence, but also in development, emergency response, health, and regional stability. The event further reinforces India’s longstanding role as a development partner in the Maldives, especially in areas of strategic importance.
As a destination that welcomes tourists from around the globe, the Maldives’ investment in maritime security adds another layer of safety for both residents and visitors. Strengthening the capabilities of the Coast Guard ensures enhanced surveillance, safer waters, and faster emergency response, vital elements for a peaceful and well-managed island nation renowned for its world-class hospitality and marine tourism experiences.
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