The government has extended the deadline for registered private newspapers, magazines, and broadcasters to apply for financial assistance from the state budget.

According to the Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Information and the Arts, applications will now be accepted until 7 October, allowing more time for eligible media outlets to submit their proposals.

The scheme, outlined in the Regulation on Financial Assistance to the Media published on 22 August, requires applications to be submitted exclusively through the online portal at mediaapp.one.gov.mv.

Although the regulation permits financial aid to be distributed in three installments, the President has decided that this year’s funds will be disbursed in a single lump-sum payment.

A total of USD 1.8 million has been earmarked from the state budget equivalent to 0.1 percent of projected state revenue.

To qualify, media organisations must be formally registered, with broadcasters additionally required to hold a valid operating license. Applicants must demonstrate at least three years of continuous service, ensure public accessibility, maintain a published code of ethics, meet tax obligations, make timely pension contributions, and process staff salaries through banks.

Entities whose responsible persons have outstanding verified debts must clear them before being considered for assistance. Outlets operating across multiple formats such as print, online, and broadcast may submit one proposal per category.

Funding will be allocated through a points-based system, with applicants needing to secure at least 60 points to qualify.

This is the first time the state budget has specifically earmarked financial assistance for private media. The initiative aims to strengthen the financial sustainability and independence of private media, promote productive content and accurate reporting, and foster journalism as a responsible and sustainable profession.