From the Editors: A natural echo for Sadhguru’s ‘Save Soil’ in UAE

A NATURAL ECHO FOR SADHGURU’S ‘SAVE SOIL’ IN UAE: With Indian mystic, visionary and environment activist Sadhguru having reached UAE on his journey across 27 countries stretching from Europe to India, via the Middle East, for his ‘Save Soil’ mission, the focus is once again on the UAE as one of the standard-bearers in reducing carbon footprint and ensuring a cleaner and greener tomorrow for all its residents and visitors. On Wednesday and Thursday, Sadhguru had the opportunity to see and experience first-hand, the close bond that this country shares with all those who care for the universe and who are determined to stand by the cause of conservation and protection of nature. It is no wonder that UAE happens to be the 74th country to sign up for Sadhguru’s pledge to raise awareness among the citizens of the world about the need to preserve and protect the biodiversity of soil across lands and continents. From establishing the region’s first nuclear energy plant for generation of clean electricity to actively pursuing programmes for turtle rehabilitation to protecting its natural habitats and its wildlife population … this country has always played an exemplary role in conserving its flora and fauna in the best way it can. That is why, Sadhguru’s call for ‘Save Soil’ has found a natural echo in the UAE. [COMMENT BY: Sanjib Kumar Das, Assistant Editor]

INDIA DOES THE RIGHT THING ON WHEAT FOR UAE: India will be making sufficient supplies of what coming over to the UAE despite the ban it had placed on all exports of the food staple – that’s the feedback from major foodstuff importers and supermarket operators here. If this is the case, then India has taken the right course, by ensuring ready supplies to a nation with which it has just entered an all-encompassing trade and economic deal under ‘CEPA’. And CEPA isn’t about just aiming for a $100 billion in bilaterial trade volumes in five years. It is about finding ways to overcome – or circumvent – issues common to both countries and arriving at the most favourable outcomes. Releasing wheat for shipments to the UAE at this moment in time will be one such outcome. [COMMENT BY: Manoj Nair, Business Editor]

EVERTON SURVIVE RELEGATION SCARE WITH AMAZING FIGHTBACK AT GOODISON PARK: Everton were able to secure their Premier League status late last night after a magnificent fightback against Crystal Palace at a roaring Goodison Park. It was the final home game of the season for the Blues – and for a while it looked like it might the final Premier League game the grand old stadium would host as Everton found themselves 2-0 at half time and staring relegation in the face. But they fought back brilliantly to win 3-2 and it means the club will continue their 68-year stay in the top flight. It was down to the vociferous support of the fans once again who spurred the team on, creating an incredible atmosphere and willing their heroes to attack. When Goodison is rocking no other stadium in England can match it for atmosphere. Now it will be a busy summer for Everton with several players set to leave and fresh faces to be brought it and the board must do everything in its power to never allow for such a turbulent season again.[COMMENT BY: Imran Malik, Assistant Sports Edito ]

NORMALCY IS RETURNING TO THE WORLD OF CELEBS: Often, we focus on the negatives too much. However, it’s good to be reminded that there are things to be happy about — and a lot of it, if you’re deep in the world of celebrity news. British singer Ed Sheeran has sprung the happy news of the birth of his second daughter with wife Cherry Seaborn on fans; while in the US, it’s rumoured that pop superstar Rihanna has welcomed her first child, a son, with rapper A$AP Rocky. Everyone loves a bit of baby news, and it comes at a time when the entertainment world is buzzing with new beginnings.[COMMENT BY: Jennifer Barretto, Assistant Editor – Features]