The National Social Protection Agency (NSPA) has introduced a dedicated WhatsApp number to facilitate communication for Maldivians residing or traveling abroad. The initiative aims to provide a more accessible channel for citizens to seek information regarding social protection services while outside the country.

According to a statement released by NSPA on social media platform X, overseas citizens can now send inquiries via WhatsApp to +960 7291402. The agency specified that this service will be operational from Saturday to Thursday, between 08:00 and 22:00, excluding official public holidays.

In addition to this new messaging service, NSPA continues to provide a wide range of services through its official hotline ‘1402’. These services include medical welfare assistance, details on financial benefits for persons with disabilities, and practical guidance for those facing difficulties in completing application forms for various aid programs.

Furthermore, as part of the government’s efforts to modernize and accelerate service delivery through technology, several key NSPA services have been integrated into the ‘One Gov’ portal. This digital platform allows citizens to apply online for food assistance for the underprivileged, single-parent allowances, and therapeutic treatment support for thalassemia patients and persons with disabilities.