Cross-border Payments: Nepal Clearing House Ltd. has gone live with a real-time, 24/7 UPI-NPI link for remittances, using Virtual Payment Addresses and showing INR equivalents before confirmation, with transaction and monthly limits set for both directions. Ocean Tech & Policy: Maldives Fisheries Minister Ahmed Shiyam says the government is ramping up ocean research to diversify the economy and protect marine resources, citing climate-driven fish stock changes and moves toward value addition and aquaculture. Environment Funding: President Muizzu announced an extra annual allocation of MVR 7 million from the Maldives Green Fund for environmental protection, including protected areas, wildlife, research, awareness, and school/civil society projects. Marine Conservation Spotlight: Six Senses Kanuhura renews its title sponsorship of the Lhaviyani Turtle Festival 2026, backing a major community-led effort to protect sea turtles and marine habitats. Skills for Local Jobs: Marriott Maldives Apprenticeship Programme (MIMAP) graduates 40 apprentices across hospitality disciplines, strengthening local career pathways with structured training and on-the-job learning. Education Win: Maldivian students swept top prizes in an international math storytelling competition, taking first place across all age categories. Tech in Tourism: An AI-made music video “Isla Viva” features Maldives among global luxury destinations, showing how AI is entering mainstream travel culture.