Big boost for cancer research in UAE, and Boeing halts production of iconic 747, our editors comment on the top stories of December 8

Big boost for cancer research in UAE: The new cycle of grants to support cancer research at Dubai’s Al Jalila Foundation is a timely and much-needed step as the world works to find breakthroughs in cancer treatment. The new cycle, which will award grants to UAE-based scientists, reinforces Dubai’s position as a leading destination in the field of medical education, research and innovation. Undoubtedly, the move will provide a big boost to scientific discovery and promote better health outcomes to improve the wellbeing of cancer patients in the UAE. (By Sharmila Dhal, UAE Editor).

BYE-BYE BOEING 747: After over five decades of service, Boeing is finally stopping production of the 747. The imposing twin-aisle jet was the mainstay of several carriers, especially for long-haul flights. But its time had come to an end. As technology advanced, the four-engine plane not only lost out on efficiency to its younger siblings and rivals, it was also more expensive to maintain. The Queen of the Skies, easily recognised with its humped fuselage, was earlier scheduled to retire in 2024. But the pandemic, which saw passenger numbers sharply dwindle, ensured an early goodbye to a plane considered the most stable by veteran pilots. (By Anupam Varma, Assistant Editor)

INDIAN BOWLING LACKS THE BITE IN SHORTER FORMATS: Only until recently that the Indian team boasted about the quality and pool of talent available in the bowling department. Over the last one year, that belief is slowly eroding with the way the bowlers have been punished in white ball cricket. The absence of Jasprit Bumrah is really having a telling effect on the Men in Blue and sometimes even his presence is not stemming the rot that has surfaced in the Indian bowling department. Some of the experienced names like Yuzvendra Chahal and Kuldeep Yadav don’t fit in the scheme of things now. It’s time to take stock and get the bowling department sorted before the Cricket World Cup. (By A.K.S. SATISH, Sports Editor)

PAY GAP IS STILL A PROBLEM: Women shouldn’t have to be talking about the pay gap in 2022, after years of talk about gender equality — but it’s still prevalent. In a new interview, Priyanka Chopra Jonas has revealed that she never had pay parity when she worked in Bollywood. While no industry is immune to this issue, it’s often talked about in Hollywood and Bollywood circles because of how much exposure celebrities get. The problem of women stars not getting paid as much as men of the same calibre and experience is one that should be discussed openly and dismantled. (By Jennifer Barretto, Assistant Editor – Entertainment)