Pramod Thomas is a senior correspondent with Asian Media Group since 2020, bringing 19 years of journalism experience across business, politics, sports, communities, and international relations. His career spans both traditional and digital media platforms, with eight years specifically focused on digital journalism. This blend of experience positions him well to navigate the evolving media landscape and deliver content across various formats. He has worked with national and international media organisations, giving him a broad perspective on global news trends and reporting standards.
INDIA's top biomedical research body has backed the use of the anti-malarial hydroxychloroquine as a preventive against the COVID-19, after the WHO suspended clinical trials of the drug over safety concerns.
The endorsement from the Indian Council of Medical Research came a week after the US President Donald Trump said he was taking the drug as a preventative measure.
Observational and case control studies in India showed there were "no major side effects" of taking the drug as a prophylactic, ICMR Director-General Balram Bhargava said.
Cases of nausea, vomiting and heart palpitations were noted, he added.
Last week, the ICMR -- which is leading the government's response to the virus -- expanded its advisory for the use of hydroxychloroquine as a preventative measure.
The body said all healthcare workers in hospitals and some frontline personnel could now take the drug for up to several weeks under strict medical supervision.
"We recommended that for prophylaxis, it should be continued, because there is no harm. Benefit may be there," Bhargava told reporters.
Bhargava added that when the ICMR weighed the risks and benefits of the drug, it decided that "we should not deny it to our frontline workers and healthcare workers."
But he stressed that personal protective gear should still be worn.
The previous ICMR guidelines for hydroxychloroquine stated that only asymptomatic healthcare workers caring for suspected or confirmed patients, or household contacts of confirmed patients, could be given the drug.
On Monday (25), the WHO said it was halting testing of the drug as a COVID-19 treatment after studies questioned its safety, including one that found it actually increased the risk of death.
Under India's clinical guidelines for coronavirus treatment, hydroxychloroquine can be administered, but only to patients "with severe disease and requiring ICU management".
India accounts for 70 per cent of global production of hydroxychloroquine. The country ramped up output of the drug amid increased demand, after Trump pushed for hydroxychloroquine as a potential shield or treatment for the virus.
Two-day exclusive sale runs from 7–8 October for Prime members only.
Discounts of up to 66% across tech, fashion, home, and beauty.
Major offers on brands like Ninja, Le Creuset, Sony, and Dyson.
Big savings as Prime Big Deal Days 2025 go live
Amazon’s Prime Big Deal Days 2025 is officially underway in the UK, offering Prime members exclusive access to hundreds of thousands of discounts across nearly every category. Running from 7 to 8 October, the event gives shoppers an early opportunity to stock up on festive gifts, upgrade tech, or refresh their homes, with savings of up to 66%.
The sale features limited-time New Deal Drop offers and themed collections such as Cosy Season and Gifting, spotlighting products for autumn and early Christmas shopping. Deals span across Amazon devices, home essentials, fashion, fitness, beauty, and more, with leading brands including Crocs, Ninja, Le Creuset, Philips, Sony, and Dyson.
Best tech and gadget deals
Tech enthusiasts can grab significant savings across Amazon’s device range and popular electronics.
Kindle Scribe: Up to 35% off, featuring a redesigned display and Premium Pen.
Echo Hub: Up to 41% off, making smart-home control easier.
With curated collections, limited-time drops, and discounts across top brands, Prime Big Deal Days 2025 gives UK shoppers a perfect opportunity to get ahead on Christmas lists and seasonal upgrades. Exclusive to Prime members, the event continues until 23:59 on 8 October, with new deals surfacing throughout the day.
By clicking the 'Subscribe’, you agree to receive our newsletter, marketing communications and industry
partners/sponsors sharing promotional product information via email and print communication from Garavi Gujarat
Publications Ltd and subsidiaries. You have the right to withdraw your consent at any time by clicking the
unsubscribe link in our emails. We will use your email address to personalize our communications and send you
relevant offers. Your data will be stored up to 30 days after unsubscribing.
Contact us at data@amg.biz to see how we manage and store your data.