India–Maldives ties: Maldives’ honorary consul in Kolkata, Ram Krishna Jaiswal, says education, tourism and people-to-people exchanges are deepening friendship, pointing to PM Modi’s invitation to President Muizzu as a sign of growing closeness. Measles response: India has sent 20,000 MR vaccine doses and about 3 tonnes of medical supplies to the Maldives under its “Neighbourhood First” policy to support outbreak control. Tourism update: Maldives Monetary Authority’s quarterly survey says tourism kept growing in Q1 2026, though at a slower pace, with revenue and bookings still positive and employment expanding. Plastic crackdown: Government rules tighten enforcement on banned single-use plastics, including new penalties and a planned retail ban on small plastic bags from September. Anti-corruption message: Education Minister Dr Ismail Shafeeu says civil servants are key to tackling corruption and improving public service delivery under “Maldives 2.0”. MDP politics: Former President Mohamed Nasheed warns the Muizzu government after winning the MDP chair, alleging firings tied to his election and calling for accountability. Wellness spotlight: Global Wellness Day activities in the Maldives highlight wellness beyond spas, with resort programmes and island sanctuaries welcoming cancer survivors. Tourism industry recognition: OUTRIGGER Maldives Maafushivaru named a Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice “Best of the Best” 2026 all-inclusive resort.