Space & Industry: India’s Vikram-1, launched by Skyroot Aerospace, successfully placed a payload into Low Earth Orbit—marking a major private-sector milestone for the country’s space economy. AI Governance: A new World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organization (WAICO) is set to move AI ethics into implementation, with 29 countries backing the Shanghai-based body. Energy Storage: Hungary is expanding renewables with a large lithium-ion battery storage site (49.9 MW/99.8 MWh) to smooth solar-heavy grids. Batteries & Materials: Researchers describe “sand batteries” and other alternatives aimed at storing renewable energy without the same critical-mineral pressures. Critical Minerals: The IEA reports critical mineral investment fell 9% in 2025 as geopolitics and price swings make investors cautious. Cyber & Finance: South Korea’s regulator begins sanctions proceedings against Dunamu/Upbit after a major 2025 wallet breach, amid legal gaps on hacking penalties. Tech Policy: California advances a plan to require 3D printers include software blocking “ghost gun” parts, drawing pushback from civil liberties and tech groups. Medical Tech: NMC and ICMR invite research proposals to strengthen evidence-based medical education using digital tools and new teaching methods. Clean Energy Research: A quantum-vacuum approach in simulations could make chemical reactions for CO2 capture and hydrogen production far less energy-hungry.