Russia revives lunar exploration, Emirati talent programme, IAE lowers 2024 oil demand, and more, Gulf News Editors comment on August 11 trending news

RUSSIA REVIVES LUNAR EXPLORATION: In a momentous stride for space exploration, Russia has launched its first lunar probe in nearly 50 years, signaling a resolute resurgence in its space endeavors. The Luna-25 probe, propelled from the Vostochny Cosmodrome, embarks on a historic mission to land on the lunar south pole, distinct from previous landings. This marks the commencement of Russia's novel lunar programme, aimed at advancing scientific research and soil analysis, while also echoing President Putin's commitment to space progress despite geopolitical challenges. As Russia navigates an era of shifting partnerships, this endeavor rekindles the human spirit of exploration that defies obstacles and propels mankind’s curiosity beyond earthly bounds. (By Sadiq Shaban, Opinion Editor)

IEA LOWERS 2024 OIL DEMAND: On Friday, the International Energy Agency (IEA) revised its projections, indicating a deceleration in oil demand growth for the upcoming year. The shift is attributed to subdued macroeconomic circumstances, a waning post-pandemic revival, and the increasing adoption of electric vehicles. Growth is forecast to slow to 1 million barrels per day (bpd) in 2024. OPEC's recent monthly report forecast a significant global supply deficit of over 2 million barrels daily this quarter, driven by Saudi Arabia's output reduction. Despite this, challenges persist, including China's sluggish economic recovery and the US Federal Reserve's probable decision to keep interest rates steady amidst easing inflation. (By Nivetha Dayanand, Web Editor)

BUILDING HUMAN CAPITAL: As part of the Emirati Talent Competitiveness (Nafis) programme, the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation has recovered Dh2.3 million in financial assistance from Emiratis who took on fictitious jobs in the private sector. The ministry stated that it has been proven that 107 Emiratis who had profited from Nafis, the official platform for the Emirati Talent Competitiveness programme, had taken up fictitious jobs in the private sector. Moreover, 436 private businesses have been discovered to be in violation of Emiratisation policies since the second half of 2022. Legal action would be taken against violators, the ministry declared. The task of building up a productive and sustainable Emirati human capital in the private sector forms part of a collective endeavou; it necessitates adherence from all parties involved in order for the programme to succeed and support the economy. (By Jay Hilotin, Senior Assistant Editor)

THERE'S NO MATCH TO RONALDO ON INSTAGRAM: Cristiano Ronaldo is special on the field. But can you imagine he's also super special on Instagram. The five-time Ballon D'Or winner is way ahead of all the other popular influencers which was proved when he was named Instagram's top earner for the third year in a row. Ronaldo, who in July was ranked as the world's highest-paid athlete by Forbes for the first time since 2017 following his move to Saudi Arabia, has now topped the 2023 Instagram Rich List, a global marker of online influence. The Portugal star brings in a massive $3.23 million per Instagram post, according to Hopper HQ, as he nears 600 million followers on the social media platform. His closest rival is none other than Lionel Messi, with the Argentina World Cup winner attracting almost $2.6 million for each post. This puts the two football giants ahead of not only every other sports star but also celebrities such as singer and actress Selena Gomez, reality star and make-up mogul Kylie Jenner and actor Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson. Only two other athletes - Indian cricketer Virat Kohli and Brazilian footballer Neymar - made it to the Top 20. (By Jai Prasad V Rai, Assistant Editor)

STARS OPENING UP ON TRAGIC EPISODES IN THEIR LIVES: Bollywood star Rani Mukerji’s recent revelations about grappling with a miscarriage in 2020 is ample proof that stars are vulnerable to life and its curve balls. Despite the glamour and success, celebrities, like anyone else, also face moments of profound sorrow and heartbreak. Mukerji’s candid admission of losing a baby in 2020, just before was offered the emotionally-charged role in ‘Mrs Chatterjee vs Norway’ underscores the complex interplay between an artist’s real-life emotions and their on-screen portrayals. Her decision to keep this episode private during the film’s promotions highlights the challenges of navigating public perception and the fear of being misconstrued as a promotion tactic. This speaks to the larger issue of how public figures must carefully manage their personal narratives while being authentic. Her admission serves as a poignant reminder that behind the glitz, celebrities are human too. (By Manjusha Radhakrishnan, Entertainment Editor)