The deadline for applications to the National Service Programme has been extended.

Defence Ministry had earlier announced that applications for the third round would close at 2pm today. However, the deadline has now been pushed back to 2pm on Tuesday.

Young people aged between 16 and 28 are eligible to apply. Those under 18 may participate with parental consent and must meet required health standards.

Participants receive a monthly allowance of MVR 6,000.

The three month training programme is scheduled to begin next week at the MNDF training centre in Lhaviyani atoll Maafilaafushi.

Technical training will follow at the MNDF facility in Baa atoll Kihaadhoo. Only applicants who wish to and apply for the training will be eligible to attend.

The first batch of the programme, launched last October, included 350 participants. A further 350 youths joined the second intake in late January.

The government aims to have 1,000 young people complete the programme this year.