Over MVR 120 million has been issued as income support allowance.

According to the Ministry of Finance, a total of 121.2 million was disbursed to 10,821 individuals by November 5.

The income support allowance scheme was introduced by the government in May, as a relief for individuals experiencing financial difficulties as a result of employment issues due to the Covid-19 crisis.

Under the support scheme, government will grant an allowance of up to MVR 5,000 to individuals that fall into four main categories: those that were dismissed or suspended from employment, individuals on leave without pay, individuals facing salary deductions and freelancers.

All individuals employed before March 1, currently facing dismissals or suspensions and placed on leave without pay are eligible to receive an allowance of MVR 5,000 under the scheme.

The regulations under the income support allowance state that criminal action will be taken against individuals who provide false information when applying.

Under the Covid-19 recovery loan scheme, a total of MVR 301.6 million was disbursed for 1,316 businesses by November 5 while MVR 18.1 million was issued for 601 self-employed individuals.

In total, MVR 319.7 million has been issued for 1,917 individuals under this scheme.