Ministry of Home Affairs has cancelled this year's Independence Day celebrations, including the float parade.

Speaking to 'One', Home Ministry's spokesperson Hafsy Abdulla said the flag hoisting ceremony is scheduled for 0600hrs on 26 July.

He noted that the other activities have been cancelled on the request of the government to reduce state expenditure.

The finance ministry had previously sent a circular to all the government offices, asking to cut down costs following the surge in oil prices.