Maldives's Defence Minister Ghassan Maumoon recently acknowledged the shortage of licensed pilots capable of operating three aircraft donated by India, following the departure of the Indian defence personnel from the island nation.

During a media briefing in Male, Defence Minister Ghassan Maumoon stated, "There aren't any people licensed to fly the aircraft." He explained that Maldivian soldiers, who began training to fly the aircraft under previous administrations, were unable to complete the program for unspecified reasons.

The Indian military personnel left the Maldives by Friday, in accordance with a deadline set in February as part of an agreement between the two nations. This agreement was initiated after a demand made by Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu, known for his pro-China stance, shortly after taking office in November 2023.

The move to replace Indian military personnel with civilians is viewed as a setback to India's efforts to counter China's influence in the strategically located country to its south.

Since assuming power, Muizzu's government has entered multiple agreements with China to strengthen economic ties and has marginalized India in various projects. The Maldives signed a military assistance pact with China in March and permitted a Chinese research vessel to dock at its port, within India's sphere of influence.

While New Delhi's relationship with Male flourished during the previous administration, pro-China Muizzu campaigned on an "India Out" platform, arguing that the Indian military presence compromised Maldivian sovereignty.

The 77 military personnel requested by Muizzu to be withdrawn by India mainly consist of pilots, crew, and technicians who operate two helicopters and an aircraft used for maritime surveillance, search and rescue operations, and medical evacuations. However, their presence in the Maldives was perceived as "boots on the ground."