I write in reference to your article Win for Narendra Modi as India's top court rejects challenge to Dassault jet deal (December 15). The much discussed Indo-French deal, which saw India purchase 36 Rafale fighter jets from France has been ruled as fair by India's Supreme Court. It follows a barrage of criticism and accusations of corruption from the Congress party president, Rahul Gandhi, about the irregular $8.7 billion deal. This is the latest in a string of extraordinary developments in Indian politics ahead of elections due to be held by May.
Naturally, the opposition was not satisfied with the verdict from the top court and is seeking a separate probe. The government wants an apology from Mr Gandhi, which would represent a major climbdown.
Whether the Congress leader offers an apology or continues his demands for another probe could have real implications for India’s tense general election.
K Ragavan, Bengaluru
The Hodeidah breakthrough could pave the way for peace
I refer to your timely editorial Hodeidah agreement is a true breakthrough (December 14). This is a good start that will hopefully pave the way for better understanding between the two sides fighting in this grim conflict. Wars have never solved problems, but rather create many more. Dialogue across the table, like that in Rimbo last week, is the best way to maximise opportunities that may bring an eventual peace in Yemen. Given the immense suffering in the country, it cannot come soon enough.
Name withheld by request
Merry Christmas and season’s greetings to one and all
Watching the spooky clouds as I did the rounds near my Dubai home this week, I heard beautiful Christmas hymns being sung at a church nearby. This really is a fantastic time of year. Christmas and New Year are just around the corner, the weather is superb and a festive spirit pervades. Let’s end the year together by enjoying another enchanted Christmas.
From joyful carols to special liturgies, brightly wrapped gifts and festive foods, I love this time of year. Season’s greetings to one and all.
Mathew Litty, Dubai
When inanimate objects fail you, you’re in real trouble
I write in reference to your online video Door trouble adds to British Prime Minister's Brexit sorrows (December 12). This is amazing. Even the car door is giving Prime Minister Theresa May a hard time. The Brexit door is just as locked, unfortunately for the embattled British leader. Chances are, the door malfunction is a sign of things to come.
Name withheld by request
MATCH INFO
What: India v Afghanistan, first Test
When: Starts Thursday
Where: M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengalaru
Scoreline
Bournemouth 2
Wilson 70', Ibe 74'
Arsenal 1
Bellerin 52'
Labour dispute
The insured employee may still file an ILOE claim even if a labour dispute is ongoing post termination, but the insurer may suspend or reject payment, until the courts resolve the dispute, especially if the reason for termination is contested. The outcome of the labour court proceedings can directly affect eligibility.
- Abdullah Ishnaneh, Partner, BSA Law
COMPANY PROFILE
Name: Qyubic
Started: October 2023
Founder: Namrata Raina
Based: Dubai
Sector: E-commerce
Current number of staff: 10
Investment stage: Pre-seed
Initial investment: Undisclosed
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%3Cul%3E%0A%3Cli%3EHigh%20fever%3C%2Fli%3E%0A%3Cli%3EIntense%20pain%20behind%20your%20eyes%3C%2Fli%3E%0A%3Cli%3ESevere%20headache%3C%2Fli%3E%0A%3Cli%3EMuscle%20and%20joint%20pains%3C%2Fli%3E%0A%3Cli%3ENausea%3C%2Fli%3E%0A%3Cli%3EVomiting%3C%2Fli%3E%0A%3Cli%3ESwollen%20glands%3C%2Fli%3E%0A%3Cli%3ERash%3C%2Fli%3E%0A%3C%2Ful%3E%0A%3Cp%3EIf%20symptoms%20occur%2C%20they%20usually%20last%20for%20two-seven%20days%3C%2Fp%3E%0A
Hydrogen: Market potential
Hydrogen has an estimated $11 trillion market potential, according to Bank of America Securities and is expected to generate $2.5tn in direct revenues and $11tn of indirect infrastructure by 2050 as its production increases six-fold.
"We believe we are reaching the point of harnessing the element that comprises 90 per cent of the universe, effectively and economically,” the bank said in a recent report.
Falling costs of renewable energy and electrolysers used in green hydrogen production is one of the main catalysts for the increasingly bullish sentiment over the element.
The cost of electrolysers used in green hydrogen production has halved over the last five years and will fall to 60 to 90 per cent by the end of the decade, acceding to Haim Israel, equity strategist at Merrill Lynch. A global focus on decarbonisation and sustainability is also a big driver in its development.
Sole survivors
- Cecelia Crocker was on board Northwest Airlines Flight 255 in 1987 when it crashed in Detroit, killing 154 people, including her parents and brother. The plane had hit a light pole on take off
- George Lamson Jr, from Minnesota, was on a Galaxy Airlines flight that crashed in Reno in 1985, killing 68 people. His entire seat was launched out of the plane
- Bahia Bakari, then 12, survived when a Yemenia Airways flight crashed near the Comoros in 2009, killing 152. She was found clinging to wreckage after floating in the ocean for 13 hours.
- Jim Polehinke was the co-pilot and sole survivor of a 2006 Comair flight that crashed in Lexington, Kentucky, killing 49.
The Perfect Couple
Starring: Nicole Kidman, Liev Schreiber, Jack Reynor
Creator: Jenna Lamia
Rating: 3/5
Key products and UAE prices
iPhone XS
With a 5.8-inch screen, it will be an advance version of the iPhone X. It will be dual sim and comes with better battery life, a faster processor and better camera. A new gold colour will be available.
Price: Dh4,229
iPhone XS Max
It is expected to be a grander version of the iPhone X with a 6.5-inch screen; an inch bigger than the screen of the iPhone 8 Plus.
Price: Dh4,649
iPhone XR
A low-cost version of the iPhone X with a 6.1-inch screen, it is expected to attract mass attention. According to industry experts, it is likely to have aluminium edges instead of stainless steel.
Price: Dh3,179
Apple Watch Series 4
More comprehensive health device with edge-to-edge displays that are more than 30 per cent bigger than displays on current models.
