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.
AT LEAST 22 patients died on Wednesday (21) in a hospital in western India after a disruption to their oxygen supply caused by a leaking tank, the health minister said, as a nationwide surge in coronavirus cases soaks up supplies of the crucial gas.
The incident in the city of Nashik, one of India's worst-hit areas, happened after the tank of gas leaked, said Rajesh Tope, the health minister of Maharashtra, the richest state, where the city is located.
"Patients who were on ventilators at the hospital in Nashik have died," Tope said in televised remarks.
"The leakage was spotted at the tank supplying oxygen to these patients. The interrupted supply could be linked to the deaths of the patients in the hospital."
The world's second most populous nation reported 295,041 new infections on Wednesday for the world's highest daily rise, stretching its hospitals to breaking point, officials said.
Only the US had a slightly higher one-day rise of 297,430 cases in January, though its tally has since fallen sharply. India's 2,023 deaths were also its highest in the pandemic.
On Tuesday (20), hospitals in Delhi, the capital, said they had enough oxygen left for just another eight to 24 hours, while some private institutions had enough for only four or five.
The situation was so severe that some people had tried to loot an oxygen tanker, forcing authorities to beef up security, said the health minister of the neighbouring state of Haryana.
"From now, I've ordered police protection for all tankers," Anil Vij told Reuters partner ANI.
Television showed images of people with empty oxygen cylinders crowding refilling facilities as they scrambled to save stricken relatives in hospital.
"We were completely blocked out of supplies yesterday but by the end of the day we received some and it is helping us today," said Charu Sachdeva, an official at the state-run Rajiv Gandhi Cancer Institute & Research Centre in the capital.
In the northern city of Lucknow, one man said a hospital had asked him to arrange oxygen supplies for his uncle or take him away since it had run out.
'Lockdowns should be last resort'
In an address to the nation, prime minister Narendra Modi said that the country of 1.3 billion people was "once again fighting a big fight".
"The situation was under control till a few weeks back, and then this second corona wave came like a storm," he said.
He asserted that lockdowns should be the 'last resort' to deal with the pandemic, and reassured the nation that his government was making all efforts to augment medical care.
Modi also asked states to convince migrant workers to stay put where they are with a guarantee that they will be vaccinated in the coming days and will also not lose their livelihoods.
A large number of migrants have begun leaving for their home states in distress following lockdowns in cities like Delhi and Mumbai.
"In today's situation, we have to save the country from lockdown. I will also request states to use it as the last resort. We have to try hard to avoid lockdown and the focus has to be on the micro containment zone. We will improve our economy's health and also take care of the people's health,” Modi said.
"The challenge is big but we have to overcome it with our resolve, courage and preparation."
He called upon all stakeholders, including the pharmaceutical industry, to deal collectively with the immediate challenge of the shortage of oxygen cylinders.
Interacting with vaccine manufacturers from across the country via video conferencing, the prime minister said the private sector will play an even more active role in the vaccination drive in the coming days and that this will require better coordination between hospitals and industries.
Capital crisis
Delhi, a city of 20 million people, recorded 28,395 new cases and 277 deaths on Tuesday (20), its highest tally since the pandemic began. Every third person tested for coronavirus proved positive.
About 80 of 142 hospitals in Delhi had no beds left for virus patients, government figures showed.
New Delhi businessman Saurabh Mittal said he called a hospital shown in a government database to have beds free, only to be told they were full up and could not take anyone.
"I told them there is online availability but they said the real-time data showed no beds," said Mittal, who had been trying to arrange treatment for a virus sufferer.
Delhi, like large parts of India, let its guard down when the virus seemed to be under control, allowing big gatherings such as weddings and festivals as daily infections fell to fewer than 1,000 during the winter, health experts said.
• Prada confirms Indian roots behind 2026 ‘leather sandals’ after controversy • Indian artisans and officials accused the brand of cultural appropriation • The footwear resembles traditional Kolhapuri chappals with GI status • Prada says designs are still in development and open to dialogue with India
Italian fashion label Prada has officially acknowledged that its Spring/Summer 2026 menswear collection includes footwear inspired by India’s traditional Kolhapuri chappals. The statement came after mounting criticism from Indian artisans and industry leaders, who claimed the brand showcased the design at Milan Fashion Week without recognising its origins.
Prada confirms Kolhapuri chappals inspired its 2026 Milan collectionInstagram/prada
Prada responds to Kolhapuri chappal row
In a letter addressed to Lalit Gandhi, President of the Maharashtra Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture (MACCIA), Prada’s CSR head Lorenzo Bertelli confirmed the sandals were influenced by Indian craftsmanship. The fashion house admitted that the open-toe leather sandals presented on the Milan runway drew from the centuries-old Kolhapuri style, traditionally made by artisans in Maharashtra and Karnataka.
Kolhapuri chappals have been crafted for centuries and received GI tag in 2019 iStock
The controversy erupted after Prada described the footwear simply as “leather sandals” in its show notes, omitting any reference to India. This led to accusations of cultural appropriation and disregard for artisans' rights. BJP MP Dhananjay Mahadik also led a group of Kolhapuri chappal makers to meet Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, urging government action to protect their Geographical Indication (GI) status.
No production yet, says Prada, as India seeks fair credit
Prada clarified that the sandals shown were part of an early-stage design process and have not been confirmed for mass production. “None of the pieces are finalised or approved for commercial use,” Bertelli wrote.
MACCIA, in its communication, called for proper acknowledgement and possible collaboration or compensation for Indian artisans. The organisation stressed that Kolhapuri chappals are not just heritage products but also vital to the livelihoods of thousands of families.
In response, Bertelli assured Prada’s commitment to ethical design, cultural respect, and further engagement with Indian artisan communities. He also welcomed the opportunity for open dialogue on potential partnerships.
The Kolhapuri chappal, awarded GI status in 2019, is a symbol of regional identity and craftsmanship. As global fashion continues to borrow from traditional cultures, this case may set the tone for how brands address ownership, recognition, and respect.
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Wintour’s style of leadership earned her the nickname “Nuclear Wintour”
Anna Wintour steps down as editor of US Vogue after 37 years
She will remain Vogue’s global editorial director and hold senior roles at Condé Nast
Wintour transformed US Vogue into a global fashion authority
The 75-year-old has received numerous honours, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom
End of an era at US Vogue
Anna Wintour has stepped down as the editor of US Vogue, bringing to a close a 37-year tenure that redefined the publication and saw her become one of the most influential figures in global fashion.
The announcement was made on Thursday (26 June) during a staff meeting in New York. Wintour, 75, will no longer oversee the day-to-day editorial operations of Vogue’s US edition. However, she will continue to serve as Vogue’s global editorial director and Condé Nast’s chief content officer, maintaining senior leadership roles across the company.
A transformative legacy
Wintour took the helm of US Vogue in 1988, inheriting a relatively conservative magazine. She swiftly transformed it into a trendsetting, authoritative voice in fashion. Under her leadership, the publication became known for its iconic covers, high-end photography, and ability to shape careers in the fashion industry.
With extensive budgets and strong advertising support, Vogue became a global fashion flagship, influencing designers, celebrities, and brands worldwide.
Wintour’s style of leadership earned her the nickname “Nuclear Wintour” for her decisiveness, with some reports noting her tendency to make bold editorial decisions without extensive discussion. Her distinctive bob haircut and ever-present sunglasses made her a recognisable front-row figure at fashion weeks around the world.
Beyond the magazine
The British-born editor rose to wider public fame as the inspiration behind the character Miranda Priestly in The Devil Wears Prada — both the 2003 novel and the 2006 film adaptation. While Wintour rarely commented on the portrayal, she acknowledged the attention it brought, most recently during the launch of a stage musical adaptation in London in 2024.
She told the BBC, “They [my sunglasses] help me see and they help me not see. They help me be seen and not be seen. They are a prop, I would say.”
Wintour also became synonymous with the Met Gala, the annual high-profile charity event in New York City, which she has organised for years, drawing celebrities from fashion, film, politics, and sport.
Recognition and future plans
Wintour has received numerous accolades during her career. She was made a Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire (DBE) in 2017 and became a Companion of Honour in February 2025. During the ceremony in London, she removed her sunglasses to receive the award and told King Charles III that she had no intention of retiring.
Wintour also became synonymous with the Met GalaGetty Images
In the United States, President Joe Biden awarded her the Presidential Medal of Freedom earlier this year before leaving office.
Despite stepping back from US Vogue, Wintour will continue to oversee several major Condé Nast titles including Wired, Vanity Fair, GQ, Condé Nast Traveler, and Glamour, as part of her global leadership responsibilities.
In her remarks to staff, she described the decision as “pivotal” but confirmed she would not be leaving the company or her office. “I’ll be turning all my attention to global leadership and working with our team of brilliant editors around the world,” she said.
Nadiya Hussain confirms BBC will not renew her cookery series
Bake Off winner challenges expectations to remain “grateful”
She says hard work and talent, not luck, brought her success
Celebrities, including Annie Lennox and Fearne Cotton, show support
BBC ends decade-long collaboration with Bake Off star
Nadiya Hussain has spoken out after the BBC decided not to commission another cookery programme with her. The popular TV chef, who won The Great British Bake Off in 2015, shared her views on social media, stating that she “won’t always be grateful” and should not be expected to remain silent about career setbacks.
The decision ends a nearly 10-year working relationship between the broadcaster and Hussain, who has hosted several well-received cookery shows under the BBC banner. In her latest Instagram video, she addressed the public’s reaction and emphasised her right to expect more from her career.
“Gratitude shouldn't be a muzzle”
In a video message posted on Instagram, Hussain said she had received numerous messages urging her to be grateful following the show's cancellation. She described how growing up in an immigrant household had shaped her understanding of gratitude.
“Grateful for being let in, grateful for having work—even if underpaid, grateful for safety—even if it meant silence,” she explained. “Gratitude became something that I was expected to wear like a uniform.”
She continued: “I am allowed to feel more than just thankful. I am a human being, and I am allowed to feel angry when I’m treated unfairly. I’m allowed to want better for myself and for my family.”
Challenging the idea that people from marginalised backgrounds must constantly express gratitude for any opportunities, she said: “We didn’t come here just to survive; we came here to live, to grow, to contribute, to belong—not as a guest, but as a person who has rights and dreams and dignity.”
Hussain concluded, “So no, I won’t always be grateful. I got here through hard work, through determination, through talent. I got here because I’m good at what I do.”
Nadiya’s message received widespread support from fans and fellow public figures. TV presenter Fearne Cotton responded with a series of heart emojis, while musician Annie Lennox praised her statement, writing: “Gratitude should never become a silencing muzzle—as you so rightly say!”
Rahul Mandal, who won Bake Off in 2018, commented: “So true. Thanks so much for speaking up.” TV doctor Amir Khan also backed her remarks, stating: “Exactly this! Well said.”
Nadiya’s track record with the BBC
Since winning Bake Off when it aired on the BBC, Hussain has fronted several successful cookery series for the broadcaster. These include Nadiya Bakes, Nadiya’s Fast Flavours, and Nadiya’s Simple Spices. She is also a published author of cookbooks and children’s titles.
Earlier this month, the BBC issued a statement on the programming decision: “After several wonderful series, we have made the difficult decision not to commission another cookery show with Nadiya Hussain at the moment.”
However, the broadcaster emphasised that it remains open to future collaborations and that Nadiya is “a much-valued part of the BBC family”.
What’s next for Nadiya?
While a new BBC project is not in the pipeline, Nadiya has hinted at future ventures. In a previous post addressing the show’s cancellation, she said she is now focusing on “being [her] most authentic self” and is looking forward to working with people who “believe in [her] talent”.
She also reassured her followers that “exciting” new projects are on the way.
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The importance of vigilance as demand for these weight loss and diabetes drugs continues to grow
Almost 400 reports of acute pancreatitis linked to weight loss and diabetes jabs have been filed in the UK
Most cases involve popular GLP-1 drugs including Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro
Health officials are investigating possible genetic causes behind the side-effects
Patients hospitalised with pancreatitis encouraged to report symptoms via MHRA’s Yellow Card scheme
Adverse drug reactions cost the NHS an estimated £2.2bn annually
Health watchdog investigates spike in serious side-effects from GLP-1 drugs
UK health authorities have launched a study into the side effects of popular weight loss and diabetes drugs following a spike in reported cases of acute pancreatitis. Nearly 400 reports have been received via the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency’s (MHRA) Yellow Card scheme, which monitors side effects and adverse reactions related to medicines and medical devices.
The medicines involved are GLP-1 receptor agonists – including semaglutide (marketed as Ozempic and Wegovy), liraglutide, and tirzepatide (branded as Mounjaro). The Yellow Card data shows that 181 of the cases involved tirzepatide alone.
What is acute pancreatitis?
Acute pancreatitis is a sudden inflammation of the pancreas, the gland located behind the stomach that helps with digestion. Symptoms typically include severe abdominal pain, nausea, and fever, and the condition often requires hospital treatment. In rare cases, it can be fatal.
Though pancreatitis is listed as an “uncommon” side-effect of GLP-1 medications in patient information leaflets – meaning it may affect around one in 100 people – the MHRA has seen a notable rise in reported incidents, particularly in 2025.
Since the start of the year, there have been 22 reports involving semaglutide (Ozempic and Wegovy) and 101 involving tirzepatide (Mounjaro).
Study launched to explore potential genetic link
To understand the possible causes of these side effects, particularly in light of rising usage of these medications, the MHRA is inviting affected patients to take part in a research study through the Yellow Card Biobank. The initiative, run by Genomics England, will collect saliva samples and other data to explore any genetic factors that may be influencing patient response to GLP-1 drugs.
An MHRA spokesperson stated: “Alongside increased usage, we are seeing an upturn in the number of Yellow Card reports mentioning GLP-1 medicines and acute pancreatitis.”
While no known genetic link has yet been established, the MHRA said genetic variations could help explain why some patients experience adverse reactions to certain medications. The agency is urging both patients and health professionals to report suspected side-effects related to these drugs.
Adverse reactions place burden on NHS
Research shows that one in six hospital admissions is caused by an adverse drug reaction, and around a third of those could potentially be avoided through genetic testing. The financial cost is also significant – the NHS spends over £2.2 billion each year on hospital stays linked to adverse reactions alone.
Dr Alison Cave, chief safety officer at the MHRA, highlighted the need for more personalised approaches to medicine: “Evidence shows that almost a third of side-effects to medicines could be prevented with the introduction of genetic testing.”
Manufacturers respond to rising concerns
In response to the reports, drugmakers Lilly and Novo Nordisk reiterated their commitment to patient safety and advised that side effects should always be reported and discussed with healthcare professionals.
A spokesperson for Lilly, which manufactures Mounjaro, said: “Patient safety is Lilly’s top priority. We take reports seriously and actively monitor, evaluate and report safety information for all our medicines.”
The Mounjaro leaflet identifies acute pancreatitis as an uncommon side-effect, advising patients to consult their doctor before using the drug if they have a history of the condition.
Novo Nordisk UK, which produces Ozempic and Wegovy, issued a similar statement: “Patient safety is of the utmost importance to Novo Nordisk… The known risks and benefits of GLP-1 medicines are described in the product information. We recommend that patients take these medications only for their approved indications and under the strict supervision of a healthcare professional.”
Both companies said they were continuously collecting safety data and working with authorities to ensure ongoing monitoring and understanding of their treatments.
What should patients do?
Health officials are encouraging patients who have experienced severe symptoms such as abdominal pain, nausea, or fever after taking these medications to report their experiences to the Yellow Card scheme. Hospitalised individuals may be contacted to participate in the Biobank study.
While the overall safety profile of GLP-1 medicines remains positive, the MHRA has stressed the importance of vigilance as demand for these weight loss and diabetes drugs continues to grow.
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M&S’s latest offering taps into both tradition and innovation
M&S unveils limited edition strawberries and cream sandwich for £2.80
Inspired by Japanese 'sweet sandos', it features Red Diamond strawberries and whipped cream cheese
Available in stores now, found in the savoury sandwich aisle
Launch coincides with Wimbledon and British strawberry season
Wimbledon increases strawberries and cream price for first time in 15 years
New summer sandwich from M&S
Marks & Spencer has launched a limited edition M&S strawberry sandwich, combining classic British summer flavours with a Japanese twist. Priced at £2.80, the strawberries and cream sandwich is available in M&S stores now.
The dessert-style sandwich features M&S’s exclusive Red Diamond strawberries, whipped cream cheese, and sweetened bread. Despite its sweet contents, the product is found in the savoury sandwich section of M&S Food halls.
M&S said the creation is inspired by Japan’s ‘sweet sandos’ a popular type of fruit sandwich made with fluffy bread and luxury fruit, often seen in trendy Japanese patisseries.
A nod to Japanese tradition
Fruit sandwiches in Japan date back to the early 20th century when fruit shops began opening cafés near train stations and business districts. These cafés offered dishes that featured premium fruit at accessible prices, including parfaits, shortcakes, and sandwiches.
M&S product developers said they had long planned to create a dessert sandwich, and the juiciest moment had arrived. “With our exclusive Red Diamond Strawberries at their juiciest best, the time has finally come to create the ultimate strawberries and crème experience,” a spokesperson said.
Social media reaction
The M&S strawberry sandwich has already caught the attention of customers, with many sharing their thoughts on social media. One Instagram user called it the “best sandwich ever” and rated it “100000/10”. Another described it as “berry berry good”, while a third commented: “Where are my car keys! I need to get this NOW.”
Others compared it to “cake on the go” and said it would be the perfect treat before work or as part of an afternoon tea.
M&S says the sandwich is ideal for alfresco lunches, summer picnics, courtside snacks at Wimbledon, or simply as a sweet afternoon pick-me-up.
A rich history of sandwich innovation
M&S Food began offering freshly made sandwiches in the 1920s and introduced pre-packed sandwiches in the 1980s. Since then, the retailer has sold over four billion sandwiches. The launch of the M&S strawberry sandwich adds to this legacy, offering a novel twist on a British summer classic.
Strawberries and cream have long been associated with summer in the UK and are traditionally enjoyed when the fruit is in peak season. The dish’s roots are believed to trace back to Tudor England, where it was served at royal banquets under Henry VIII.
Wimbledon raises strawberries and cream prices
The sandwich launch comes as Wimbledon prepares to open its gates, where strawberries and cream remain one of the most iconic refreshments. For the first time in 15 years, the All England Club has increased the price of the snack from £2.50 to £2.70.
A spokesperson explained: “We have taken the decision to slightly increase the price of strawberries this year from £2.50 to £2.70. We feel this modest increase still ensures that our world-famous strawberries are available at a very reasonable price.”
With rising operational costs, even Wimbledon is feeling the impact of the wider cost-of-living pressures. The club sells around 140,000 punnets each year, meaning the new price could generate an additional £28,000.
Despite the increase, the £2.70 strawberries and cream dish remains one of the best-value items at the tournament. Wimbledon is also among the few major sporting events that allows spectators to bring their own food and drink, including alcohol.
The strawberries served at the Championships are picked the same morning from the family-run Hugh Lowe Farm in Kent, ensuring freshness.
Sweet timing
As Wimbledon fever builds and summer reaches full swing, M&S’s latest offering taps into both tradition and innovation. The M&S strawberry sandwich is a playful take on a classic flavour pairing and adds a fresh option to the retailer’s seasonal range, just in time for one of the UK’s most iconic sporting events.
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