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.
NET migration to Britain hit a record of more than 900,000 in 2023, much higher than original estimates, although tougher visa rules have started to reduce the number of arrivals, official data showed.
In the year ending June 2024, most non-EU immigrants coming to the UK for work (116,000) or study (127,000) were from India, data from the Office for National Statistics on Thursday (28) showed.
The top five non-EU nationalities for long-term immigration to the UK were: Indians (240,000), Nigerians (120,000), Pakistanis (101,000), Chinese (78,000), and Zimbabweans (36,000) during the period.
Immigration is a big political issue in the country, where voters worry that already stretched public services cannot cope with such large numbers arriving, but sectors such as healthcare say they cannot function without foreign workers.
Data revealed a net migration of 906,000 for the year to the end of June 2023, revised up from the previous estimate of 740,000, in what the ONS described as "unprecedented levels" since 2021.
Numbers did fall 20 per cent from the record high to 728,000 for the year to the end of June 2024, the ONS said, driven by declining numbers of dependants coming with those on study visas after the rules were changed.
The big jump to 2023 numbers was attributed to more available data, more information on Ukraine visas and improvements to how it estimates migration, the ONS said.
Seema Malhotra
Migration minister Seema Malhotra said the government was committed to "ensure those who abuse our immigration system face the strongest possible consequences".
"No longer will employers be able to flout the rules with little consequence or exploit international workers for costs they were always supposed to pay if they choose not to recruit domestically," she added.
Tories won a landslide under the leadership of Boris Johnson at the 2019 election, largely on a promise to bring net migration numbers down.
The party repeatedly promised that leaving the European Union, which ended the free movement of people from member states, would allow the UK to "take back control" of its borders.
But regular migration has soared since Britain formally left the EU in January 2020. In 2021, net migration was 488,000.
Responding to the latest numbers, shadow home secretary Chris Philp MP said, "Today’s figures confirm what we’ve been warning about: immigration remains far too high, and Labour was wrong to suspend further restrictions on family visas.
"Such high numbers place mounting pressure on housing, public services, and damage social cohesion, causing a real impact felt by communities across the UK."
The Tory lawmaker stressed the urgency of implementing stricter border controls, reducing immigration numbers, and prioritising the needs of British workers and families.
The Labour government warned on Thursday that employers who flout visa rules or fail to pay the minimum wage could face lengthy bars from hiring foreign workers.
Measures introduced through the government's Employment Rights Bill -– which is currently making its way through parliament -– would see the length of time companies can be sanctioned double to two years.
Kemi Badenoch delivers a speech on immigration on November 27, 2024 in London, England. (Photo by Peter Nicholls/Getty Images)
Meanwhile, the number of undocumented migrants arriving in the UK after crossing the Channel on dangerous rudimentary vessels stands at over 33,500, up around 18 per cent compared to the same period in 2023. Numbers are down on 2022.
High levels of legal migration in 2016 was one of the driving forces behind Britain's vote to leave the European Union.
While post-Brexit changes to visas saw a sharp drop in the number of European Union migrants to Britain, new work visa rules led to a surge in immigration from India, Nigeria and Pakistan, often to fill health and social care vacancies.
Badenoch admits mistakes on immigration
Ahead of the release of the ONS data, Tory leader Kemi Badenoch admitted her party "got it wrong" on immigration, acknowledging the strain it has placed on public services and the challenges of integrating newcomers.
Badenoch outlined a new approach to immigration, reaffirming the Tories' commitment to a "strict numerical cap" on migration if they win the next election. However, she stopped short of specifying what that cap would be.
Labour criticised the Tories for allowing immigration to "spiral out of control" during their time in office.
At a press conference, Badenoch took responsibility, saying, "As the new leader, it is right that I accept responsibility and say truthfully, we got it wrong."
She promised a comprehensive review of policies affecting migration, including the role of the European Convention on Human Rights, the Human Rights Act, and rules governing migrants’ access to benefits.
While current policies restrict welfare access for most visa holders and asylum seekers, Badenoch indicated further tightening could be on the table.
Her proposed changes also include stricter criteria for obtaining British passports and a "zero tolerance" policy for foreign criminals remaining in the UK.
Badenoch also dismissed speculation about reviving the controversial Rwanda scheme, which Labour scrapped, but emphasised the need for a "deterrent" to curb illegal migration.
She warned that the UK "cannot sustain the numbers we have seen," adding, "Immigration is at a pace too fast to maintain public services and too rapid for meaningful integration."
She cautioned against the erosion of shared national identity, saying, "Without a shared national identity, our country will suffer. It doesn’t matter if you are for or against immigration—unchecked numbers fray the ties that bind us together."
Early reviews praise the series as an entertaining and spoofy take on the film industry.
The show features a host of major celebrity cameos, including Shah Rukh Khan and Salman Khan.
A subtle dig at the Wankhede case has become an immediate talking point for fans.
The series is now streaming globally on Netflix.
Aryan Khan has officially arrived as a director, and the buzz is impossible to ignore. His new Netflix series, The Ba**ds of Bollywood*, premiered to a star-studded audience in Mumbai before its global launch and the first reactions are flooding in. The project, a self-aware show, offers a cheeky look behind the curtain of the Hindi film industry. This bold directorial debut is already being called a game-changer for the star kid, presenting his unique vision and creative chops.
From scandal to satire Aryan Khan’s The Ba**ds of Bollywood* takes Bollywood by surprise Instagram/redchilliesent
What is The Ba**ds of Bollywood actually about?
Forget a straight-laced drama because this is a satirical romp. The narrative centres on a group of outsiders and their frenzied attempts to carve a space for themselves in the cutthroat world of Bollywood. It’s packed with meta-humour, insider jokes and a tone that doesn’t take itself too seriously. The series uses its seven-episode run to explore the absurdities and sacrifices behind the glamour, all while delivering plenty of drama and unexpected twists to keep viewers hooked.
How have critics and celebrities reacted to the show?
The initial reviews are overwhelmingly positive, tipping the scales away from mere nepotism chatter. Filmmaker Rahul Dholakia took to X, writing, “Not Star but ***’s are born!! What an entertaining and spoofy, goofy first episode... Bhai Binge Karna padega!!!” He congratulated the entire team, mentioning the years of hard work that went into the project.
— (@)
Producer Sunita Gowariker called it an “amazing, entertaining, funny series,” while Farah Khan applauded Aryan as the “kindest, sweetest, talented n most hardworking director.” The consensus is clear: Aryan Khan hasn’t just entered the arena but has made a strong statement.
— (@)
Did Aryan Khan take a dig at the Wankhede case?
It appears so, and fans have latched on to it. The reference is a bold move, given Aryan’s own arrest in October 2021 by the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) in a high-profile cruise ship drug case. The investigation, led by then zonal director Sameer Wankhede, saw Aryan spend weeks in jail before being granted bail. The NCB eventually cleared him of all charges due to a “lack of evidence.” In the show, a scene features a stern-looking cop frustrated by drug abuse in the industry.
Drugs-On-Cruise Case: Shah Rukh Khan heaves a sigh of relief as son Aryan Khan gets clean chit by NCB AFP via Getty Images
Viewers were quick to connect this to Wankhede. Social media exploded with comments, one user noting, “Bhai sahab... #aryankhan took a zabardast dig... Very gutsy.” This bold, unsubtle reference has become one of the most discussed elements of the show.
— (@)
Where can you watch The Ba**ds of Bollywood ?
The entire series is available to stream right now on Netflix. The global release means subscribers everywhere can dive into the chaos. With a reported budget running into millions of pounds, the production values are as glossy as you’d expect from a Red Chillies Entertainment production. So, if your schedule allows, clear it. As one fan aptly posted, they were officially on a “binge-watching break” for this one. It’s time to see what all the fuss is about.
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Oakley Meta Vanguard glasses and updated Ray-Ban Meta glasses also revealed
Meta launches new AI-enabled smart glasses in partnership with Ray-Ban and Oakley.
Devices include the Meta Ray-Ban Display with a full-colour lens and a neural wristband for gesture control.
Oakley Meta Vanguard glasses and updated Ray-Ban Meta glasses also revealed.
Prices range from £280 to £586, with sales starting this month.
Announcement comes amid scrutiny over Meta’s safety practices and its heavy investment in AI infrastructure.
Meta launches latest AI-driven wearables
Meta has unveiled its latest range of smart glasses powered by artificial intelligence at its annual Meta Connect conference. Chief executive Mark Zuckerberg introduced the devices, developed in collaboration with Ray-Ban and Oakley, describing the technology as a “huge scientific breakthrough.”
The flagship product, the Meta Ray-Ban Display, features a high-resolution screen in one lens, a 12-megapixel camera, and the ability to make video calls and display messages. A new neural wristband allows users to perform tasks such as sending messages using small hand gestures.
Expanded line-up of smart glasses
Alongside the Display, Meta announced the Oakley Meta Vanguard glasses, targeted at sports enthusiasts and priced at $499 (£366), as well as the second generation of the Ray-Ban Meta glasses, costing $379 (£280). The Display will sell for $799 (£586), making it significantly more expensive than Meta’s existing models.
Since entering the market in 2023, Meta is understood to have sold around two million pairs of smart glasses, although the company does not release official sales figures.
Analysts remain cautious
Industry experts suggest the new products may face an uphill challenge compared with previous launches. “Unlike VR headsets, glasses are an everyday, non-cumbersome form factor,” said Forrester research director Mike Proulx. “The onus is on Meta to convince the majority of people who don’t own AI glasses that the benefits outweigh the cost.”
Leo Gebbie of CCS Insight added that the Ray-Ban glasses have been popular due to being “easy to use, inconspicuous and relatively affordable,” but expressed scepticism over whether the more advanced Display model would achieve the same success.
Heavy investment in AI
The launch comes as Meta continues to expand its artificial intelligence operations. In July, Mr Zuckerberg said the company would spend hundreds of billions of dollars on AI infrastructure, including vast data centres in the United States, one of which is expected to span an area almost the size of Manhattan.
The company is also competing to recruit top AI talent as it develops what it calls “superintelligence,” technology designed to out-think humans.
Protests and safety concerns
The announcements coincided with protests outside Meta’s New York headquarters. Parents and activists demanded stronger safeguards for children on platforms such as Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp, highlighting concerns over online harms.
Two former Meta safety researchers also testified before the US Senate last week, alleging the company discouraged studies that could show evidence of risks to children from its virtual reality products. Meta rejected the claims, describing them as “nonsense.”
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The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) said the new contract with Apollo Tyres runs until March 2028. (Photo: BCCI)
INDIAN cricket has signed Apollo Tyres as its new lead sponsor after fantasy sports platform Dream11 ended its contract following a government ban on online gambling.
The men's team travelled to the United Arab Emirates for the ongoing Asia Cup without a sponsor on their shirts after Dream11 exited the deal, which was worth about $44 million and was set to run until 2026.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) said the new contract with Apollo Tyres runs until March 2028. While the value was not disclosed, the board said it is higher than the previous deal.
"The new partnership, secured after a rigorous bidding process, represents a substantial increase in sponsorship value, signifying the immense and growing commercial appeal of Indian cricket," the BCCI said in a statement.
BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia said, "We are excited about this being Apollo's first major sponsorship in India cricket, which speaks volumes about the sport's unparalleled reach and influence. This is more than a commercial agreement; it's a partnership between two institutions that have earned the trust and respect of millions."
Apollo Tyres Vice-Chairman and Managing Director Neeraj Kanwar said, "Cricket's unmatched popularity in India and worldwide makes it an honour for us to become the national team lead sponsor of Team India."
The Apollo Tyres logo will appear on the jerseys of the Indian men's and women's teams across all formats.
Last month, the Indian parliament passed a law banning online gambling. The government said gambling platforms had caused financial distress, addiction and even suicide, and were linked to fraud, money laundering and terrorism financing. Fantasy sports apps such as Dream11 continue to operate, though for prizes and not cash.
In the rapidly evolving world of crypto casinos, one platform is standing out for its innovative gameplay, unmatched rewards, and community-driven growth — Toshi.bet. Recognized by CoinMarketCap as a pioneer in crypto gaming, Toshi.bet is transforming how players interact with digital assets while gaming.
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Transparency is a cornerstone of Toshi.bet’s mission. Every game is provably fair, withdrawals are instant, and no KYC is required — providing users with security, privacy, and control over their assets.
The Future of Toshi.bet
With crypto adoption surging globally, Toshi.bet is positioning itself as the go-to destination for crypto gaming enthusiasts. From expanding its staking programs to introducing new high-engagement games, the platform is continuously innovating to meet the needs of its rapidly growing player base.
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Nvidia boss Jensen Huang has said he is “disappointed” following reports
China’s Cyberspace Administration has reportedly ordered tech firms to stop using Nvidia’s AI chips
Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang says he is “disappointed” but will remain “patient”
Huang is visiting the UK alongside other tech leaders during Donald Trump’s state visit
Nvidia became the world’s first $4tn company earlier in 2025 amid the AI boom
Huang responds to reported China directive
Nvidia boss Jensen Huang has said he is “disappointed” following reports that China has told its leading technology firms to halt purchases of the company’s artificial intelligence chips.
Speaking to reporters in the UK, Huang added that he would remain “patient” in light of the reported order from China’s internet regulator, the Cyberspace Administration. “There are a lot of places we can’t go to, and that’s fine,” he said.
Background to chip restrictions
Nvidia is the world’s leading chipmaker, central to the global AI boom with its processors powering data centres worldwide. China, meanwhile, has been working to develop its own semiconductors as part of a broader AI strategy to reduce reliance on US technology.
The company had already faced restrictions in China. Its most advanced chips were previously banned from sale to the country before US President Donald Trump reversed the decision in July. As part of an unusual arrangement, Nvidia must pay 15% of its Chinese revenues to the US government.
Financial Times report
According to the Financial Times, China’s Cyberspace Administration recently told domestic technology firms — including major players such as DeepSeek, Tencent and Alibaba — to stop buying Nvidia’s specially designed China-market chips.
Shares in Nvidia were down more than 1% in pre-market trading following the news.
Support for US policy
Asked about the geopolitical tensions, Huang said he would support the US as it sought to resolve the issues and would convey the same message directly to President Trump if asked.
Huang is one of several technology leaders, including Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella, attending Trump’s state visit to the UK. They are expected to join a state banquet on Wednesday evening.
UK investment and tech collaboration
Despite the reported setback in China, Nvidia has continued to expand its footprint elsewhere. The company recently announced it would supply chips to the Stargate UK data centre, a major project in north-east England involving OpenAI, Arm and NScale. The commitment forms part of a broader UK-US technology pact.
Valuation milestone
Nvidia became the first company in the world to surpass a $4tn (£2.9tn) market valuation earlier this year, underscoring its dominance in the AI sector even as geopolitical tensions shape its global reach.