From the Editors: Delta variant is rampaging through the US

Dubai’s use of blockchain technology to issue certificates against lost passports a smart move: A passport, as we all know, is such a vital document – not just for travel, but also as a proof of identity. Naturally, when such a crucial document goes missing or is misplaced, it can give the affected person immeasurable agony and anxiety. Fortunately, Dubai Police have realised the gravity of the situation and devised a way whereby, in case of a passport lost in Dubai, a certificate can be issued against it in just three simple steps! Making effective use of blockchain technology, Dubai Police now ensure a certificate is issued against a lost passport within a matter of minutes, what would have earlier taken about eight days. Innovation and out-of-the-box thinking always come naturally to Dubai and the UAE and using blockchain technology to help streamline such a crucial public utility service, using all of Dubai Police’s available digital customer interfaces – including Smart Police Stations – is yet another confirmation of the city and the nation’s commitment to human welfare and service excellence. [COMMENT BY: Sanjib Kumar Das, Assistant Editor]

Delta variant is rampaging through the US: On Fourth of July President Joe Biden said the US is closer than ever to declare “independence” from the pandemic as he delivered his Independence Day speech. But the reality, one month down the line, is alarmingly different. The number of new COVID-19 cases climbed to a six-month high, with more than 100,000 infections reported on Wednesday as the Delta variant ravages states with lower vaccination rates. That number could double if the country doesn’t control the new outbreak, country’s health expert Anthony Fauci said. Deaths per day have soared 75% in the past two weeks. The country is no way near breaking away from the virus and the latest surge in some states is pushing healthcare workers to the breaking point. Doctors and nurses are walking out because they can’t take it anymore, reports say. But there is some good news. In some states the vaccination rates are going up. “At this point if you’re unvaccinated by choice, you’re complicit in this crisis, a US judge so aptly put it. [COMMENT BY: Stephen N.R.]

Lionel Messi to leave Barcelona with PSG and Man City interested in star: Due to financial obstacles Barcelona has said that their Argentine star Lionel Messi will not be staying at the club. The 34-year-old’s contract with the Spanish giants ended on June 30 and he has been a free agent since 1 July. However, it was thought the two parties would be able to agree a new contract and that Messi would remain with the Catalans. He was offered a new deal that was believed to be 50 per cent less than what he was earlier being paid but now it appears talks have totally broken down and Messi and his team of agents and advisors will be contacting other football clubs who have the financial clout to be able to afford him. There are really only two that could afford him – PSG in France and Man City in England. It will be very interesting to see where one of the greatest footballers of all time will be plying his trade next. [COMMENT BY: Imran Malik, Assistant Editor]

A place for every film: Director James Gunn, whose action movie ‘The Suicide Squad’ is out now, has criticised comments made earlier by famed filmmaker Martin Scorsese disparaging superhero flicks. Gunn claims Scorsese made the controversial statements to drum up publicity for his own movie. While not everyone enjoys mass-produced, big-budget Marvel movies, the same can be said about artistic or cinematic films. There might be some people who find them boring and pretentious. In the vast world of films, there is a space for every genre to thrive. [COMMENT BY: Jennifer Barretto, Assistant Editor - Features]