Two passengers who arrived from Bangkok were arrested by customs officials at Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International Airport (KIA) for allegedly smuggling exotic wildlife species, authorities said on Monday.&nbsp;In a post on 'X', Bengaluru Customs stated that on November 9, officers at KIA intercepted two passengers from Bangkok and confiscated several exotic wildlife species, including a white-Cheeked Gibbon, a Monkey and a Hornbill. "The passengers have been arrested under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972," it added.&nbsp;In a separate incident the same day, another passenger arriving from Bangkok was caught carrying 2.99 kg of hydroponic ganja worth Rs 1.04 crore, Customs said. The narcotics were seized, and the individual was arrested under provisions of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985.<h3>Two Indians held for carrying cocaine from Ethiopia</h3>Similarly, the Narcotics Control Bureau and the Customs Air Intelligence Unit in the southern Indian city of Chennai confiscated 5.618 kg of cocaine from incoming international passengers' baggage at the city's international airport in Sep 03, 2025. Based on the images shared by officials, the contraband appears to be packed in small metal foils that make it seem like premium chocolates.&nbsp;Officials confirmed that two Indian nationals – a resident of Bageshwar, Uttarakhand, aged 25, and a resident of Chamba, Himachal, aged 26 – were arrested while carrying the contraband brought on an Ethiopian Airlines flight from Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, to Chennai in their baggage.&nbsp;The street value of the seized high-grade cocaine is estimated to be at least Rs 60 crores, or $6.8 million in India. Cocaine, which is sold illegally in one-gram sachets, is estimated to cost anywhere between Rs 8,000 ($90) to Rs 12,000 ($136), depending on the level of adulteration in the cocaine.&nbsp;It has been ascertained that the apprehended Indian nationals have made multiple trips from Addis Ababa to various airports in India for trafficking cocaine over the last few years.

Customs officials arrested two passengers for smuggling exotic wildlife species and another passenger carrying 2.99 kg of hydroponic ganja worth Rs 1.04 crore at Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International Airport (KIA).

Two passengers who arrived from Bangkok were arrested by customs officials at Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International Airport (KIA) for allegedly smuggling exotic wildlife species, authorities said on Monday. In a post on 'X', Bengaluru Customs stated that on November 9, officers at KIA intercepted two passengers from Bangkok and confiscated several exotic wildlife species, including a white-Cheeked Gibbon, a Monkey and a Hornbill. "The passengers have been arrested under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972," it added. In a separate incident the same day, another passenger arriving from Bangkok was caught carrying 2.99 kg of hydroponic ganja worth Rs 1.04 crore, Customs said. The narcotics were seized, and the individual was arrested under provisions of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985. Two Indians held for carrying cocaine from Ethiopia Similarly, the Narcotics Control Bureau and the Customs Air Intelligence Unit in the southern Indian city of Chennai confiscated 5.618 kg of cocaine from incoming international passengers' baggage at the city's international airport in Sep 03, 2025. Based on the images shared by officials, the contraband appears to be packed in small metal foils that make it seem like premium chocolates. Officials confirmed that two Indian nationals – a resident of Bageshwar, Uttarakhand, aged 25, and a resident of Chamba, Himachal, aged 26 – were arrested while carrying the contraband brought on an Ethiopian Airlines flight from Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, to Chennai in their baggage. The street value of the seized high-grade cocaine is estimated to be at least Rs 60 crores, or $6.8 million in India. Cocaine, which is sold illegally in one-gram sachets, is estimated to cost anywhere between Rs 8,000 ($90) to Rs 12,000 ($136), depending on the level of adulteration in the cocaine. It has been ascertained that the apprehended Indian nationals have made multiple trips from Addis Ababa to various airports in India for trafficking cocaine over the last few years.

Customs officials arrested two passengers for smuggling exotic wildlife species and another passenger carrying 2.99 kg of hydroponic ganja worth Rs 1.04 crore at Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International Airport (KIA).

Customs officials seized Rs 1-crore ganja, exotic animals at Bengaluru airport

The legal marijuana industry is adding an estimated $2 billion to the economy of the Washington state and generating total tax revenues of more than $883 million, according to a new report.

A report by Washington State University has said that with the innovations and planned nurturing the cannabis industry can grow even more. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/five-white-house-staffers-fired-over-drugs-marijuana-use-371851">Also read: Five White House staffers fired over drugs, marijuana use</a>

Washington had become the first U.S. state to legalize recreational use of marijuana on December 6, 2012, second in recreational marijuana sales. The state had previously legalized medical marijuana in 1998. Under state law, cannabis is legal for medical purposes and any purpose by adults over 21.

The economic contributions of the cannabis sector are strong and growing. Among the findings of the report, marijuana excise taxes are the fastest-growing component of the Washington state’s general and selective sales tax revenue streams.

Here are the major study findings:

1. In 2020 the Washington cannabis sector contributed $1.85 billion to gross state product.

2. The sector, directly and indirectly, supported nearly 18,700 full-time equivalent jobs.

3. Retail cannabis sales grew 21% between 2019 and 2020 and grew 605% between 2015 and 
2020.

4. Marijuana Excise taxes are the fastest-growing component of the state’s General &amp; Selective Sales Taxes revenues.&nbsp;

The report is the first to detail the positive economic impacts associated with the state’s newest agriculture industry. It was compiled by Washington State University's Impact Center for the Washington State Cannabis Alliance.

(With inputs from agencies)

The legal marijuana industry is adding an estimated $2 billion to the economy of the Washington state and generating total tax revenues of more than $883 million, according to a new report.

The legal marijuana industry is adding an estimated $2 billion to the economy of the Washington state and generating total tax revenues of more than $883 million, according to a new report. A report by Washington State University has said that with the innovations and planned nurturing the cannabis industry can grow even more. Also read: Five White House staffers fired over drugs, marijuana use Washington had become the first U.S. state to legalize recreational use of marijuana on December 6, 2012, second in recreational marijuana sales. The state had previously legalized medical marijuana in 1998. Under state law, cannabis is legal for medical purposes and any purpose by adults over 21. The economic contributions of the cannabis sector are strong and growing. Among the findings of the report, marijuana excise taxes are the fastest-growing component of the Washington state’s general and selective sales tax revenue streams. Here are the major study findings: 1. In 2020 the Washington cannabis sector contributed $1.85 billion to gross state product. 2. The sector, directly and indirectly, supported nearly 18,700 full-time equivalent jobs. 3. Retail cannabis sales grew 21% between 2019 and 2020 and grew 605% between 2015 and 2020. 4. Marijuana Excise taxes are the fastest-growing component of the state’s General & Selective Sales Taxes revenues. The report is the first to detail the positive economic impacts associated with the state’s newest agriculture industry. It was compiled by Washington State University's Impact Center for the Washington State Cannabis Alliance. (With inputs from agencies)

Marijuana adds $2 billion to Washington state economy: Study

Lawmakers in New York state passed a bill to legalise adult use of marijuana on Tuesday,&nbsp;making it the 15th US state to allow recreational use of pot. Governor Andrew Cuomo said that he intends to sign the bill into law.

"New York has a storied history of being the progressive capital of the nation, and this important legislation will once again carry on that legacy," Cuomo said in a statement.

The bill was passed in New York Senate with 40-23 votes. The Assembly had passed it by 100-49. According to the governor’s office, the legalisation could bring in $350 million annually after full implementation.&nbsp;A deal is close to being finalised, as reported by The New York Times earlier.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/science/emissions-from-cannabis-production-are-driving-temperatures-high-369330" hreflang="en">Emissions from cannabis production are driving temperatures high</a>

According to NYT, a large part of this money will be used for “equity” programmes and provide loans, and grants, especially to those who were disproportionately affected by the criminalisation of marijuana. Once passed, the possession of less than three ounces of marijuana will be allowed, and previous offences against people will be dropped.

The new agreement will impose a 13 per cent sales tax on cannabis sales. Out of this, 9 per cent will be meant for state use, while 4 per cent would go to localities.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/giggling-bread-and-dancing-salad-thailand-serves-up-cannabis-cuisine-to-happy-customers-357134" hreflang="en">'Giggling bread' and 'dancing salad': Thailand serves up cannabis cuisine to happy customers</a>

The Wall Street Journal reported that the state intends to create an “Office of Cannabis Management” to provide licenses.

Those aged 21 and above will be allowed to use marijuana, and delivery of the drug will be allowed. In addition, the state will allow the establishment of cannabis clubs. People will also be allowed to grow their own marijuana with over six plants allowed for personal use.

Lawmakers in New York state passed a bill to legalise adult use of marijuana on Tuesday, making it the 15th US state to allow recreational use of pot. Governor Andrew Cuomo said that he intends to sign the bill into law.

Lawmakers in New York state passed a bill to legalise adult use of marijuana on Tuesday, making it the 15th US state to allow recreational use of pot. Governor Andrew Cuomo said that he intends to sign the bill into law. "New York has a storied history of being the progressive capital of the nation, and this important legislation will once again carry on that legacy," Cuomo said in a statement. The bill was passed in New York Senate with 40-23 votes. The Assembly had passed it by 100-49. According to the governor’s office, the legalisation could bring in $350 million annually after full implementation. A deal is close to being finalised, as reported by The New York Times earlier. Also read: Emissions from cannabis production are driving temperatures high According to NYT, a large part of this money will be used for “equity” programmes and provide loans, and grants, especially to those who were disproportionately affected by the criminalisation of marijuana. Once passed, the possession of less than three ounces of marijuana will be allowed, and previous offences against people will be dropped. The new agreement will impose a 13 per cent sales tax on cannabis sales. Out of this, 9 per cent will be meant for state use, while 4 per cent would go to localities. Also read: 'Giggling bread' and 'dancing salad': Thailand serves up cannabis cuisine to happy customers The Wall Street Journal reported that the state intends to create an “Office of Cannabis Management” to provide licenses. Those aged 21 and above will be allowed to use marijuana, and delivery of the drug will be allowed. In addition, the state will allow the establishment of cannabis clubs. People will also be allowed to grow their own marijuana with over six plants allowed for personal use.

New York passes bill to legalise marijuana, becoming 15th US state to do so

The US state of New York is close to legalising recreational use of marijuana, after Governor Andrew Cuomo and lawmakers reportedly reached an agreement.

The state legislature is expected to vote on the bill in the near future. If passed, New York will legalise the recreational adult use of cannabis - the 15th American state to do so.

According to the governor’s office, the legalisation could bring in $350 million annually after full implementation.&nbsp;A deal is close to being finalised, as reported by The New York Times on Thursday.&nbsp;

According to NYT, a large part of this money will be used for “equity” programmes and provide loans, and grants, especially to those who were disproportionately affected by the criminalisation of marijuana. Once passed, the possession of less than three ounces of marijuana will be allowed, and previous offences against people will be dropped.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/science/emissions-from-cannabis-production-are-driving-temperatures-high-369330" hreflang="en">Emissions from cannabis production are driving temperatures high</a>

The new agreement will impose a 13 per cent sales tax on cannabis sales. Out of this, 9 per cent will be meant for state use, while 4 per cent would go to localities.

The Wall Street Journal reported that the state intends to create an “Office of Cannabis Management” to provide licenses.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/science/young-adults-vaping-cannabis-more-likely-to-get-bronchitis-says-study-352232" hreflang="en">Young adults vaping cannabis more likely to get Bronchitis, says study</a>

Those aged 21 and above will be allowed to use marijuana, and delivery of the drug will be allowed. In addition, the state will allow the establishment of cannabis clubs. People will also be allowed to grow their own marijuana with over six plants allowed for personal use.

Recently, nearby areas like New Jersey have passed measures to legalise the recreational usage of cannabis for adults.

The US state of New York is close to legalising recreational use of marijuana, after Governor Andrew Cuomo and lawmakers reportedly reached an agreement. The state legislature is expected to vote on the bill in the near future.

The US state of New York is close to legalising recreational use of marijuana, after Governor Andrew Cuomo and lawmakers reportedly reached an agreement. The state legislature is expected to vote on the bill in the near future. If passed, New York will legalise the recreational adult use of cannabis - the 15th American state to do so. According to the governor’s office, the legalisation could bring in $350 million annually after full implementation. A deal is close to being finalised, as reported by The New York Times on Thursday. According to NYT, a large part of this money will be used for “equity” programmes and provide loans, and grants, especially to those who were disproportionately affected by the criminalisation of marijuana. Once passed, the possession of less than three ounces of marijuana will be allowed, and previous offences against people will be dropped. Also read: Emissions from cannabis production are driving temperatures high The new agreement will impose a 13 per cent sales tax on cannabis sales. Out of this, 9 per cent will be meant for state use, while 4 per cent would go to localities. The Wall Street Journal reported that the state intends to create an “Office of Cannabis Management” to provide licenses. Also read: Young adults vaping cannabis more likely to get Bronchitis, says study Those aged 21 and above will be allowed to use marijuana, and delivery of the drug will be allowed. In addition, the state will allow the establishment of cannabis clubs. People will also be allowed to grow their own marijuana with over six plants allowed for personal use. Recently, nearby areas like New Jersey have passed measures to legalise the recreational usage of cannabis for adults.

New York set to legalise marijuana for adult recreational use

The Mexican Senate on Thursday approved a comprehensive adult-use marijuana legalization bill, but the pending law still faces some hurdles before doors are fully open to business opportunities in Latin America’s second-largest consumer market.

Senators voted 82 to 18 to approve the measure, with seven abstentions.

Lawmakers are rushing to secure final approval before the end of the current congressional session in December. If enacted, the reform would mark a major shift in a country where drug cartel violence in recent years has claimed over 100,000 lives.

The Supreme Court ruled in 2018 that recreational marijuana should be permitted, just one year after lawmakers legalized it for medicinal use.

Socially conservative President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador has shied away from publicly backing the legalization push, but neither has he opposed it, and senior cabinet members like Interior Minister Olga Sanchez have openly called for a shift to legalization and regulation.

Lopez Obrador’s left-of-centre Morena party, which backed the initiative, holds a majority in both chambers of Congress with its allies.

The bill aims to “improve living conditions” and “contribute to the reduction of crime linked to drug trafficking,” according to its text.

Weed companies have expressed interest in a future Mexican legal market, including Canada's Canopy Growth WEED.TO and The Green Organic Dutchman TGOD.TO, as well as a unit of California-based Medical Marijuana Inc MJNA.PK.

The legislation would let users carry up to 28 grams and grow as many as four plants at home.

Sales to adults in authorized businesses would be allowed, provided the product abides by maximum levels of psychoactive ingredients.

Children would be prohibited from using the drug or any involvement in its cultivation and sales, and driving while high would be illegal.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Mexican Senate on Thursday approved a comprehensive adult-use marijuana legalization bill, but the pending law still faces some hurdles before doors are fully open to business opportunities in Latin America’s second-largest consumer market.

The Mexican Senate on Thursday approved a comprehensive adult-use marijuana legalization bill, but the pending law still faces some hurdles before doors are fully open to business opportunities in Latin America’s second-largest consumer market. Senators voted 82 to 18 to approve the measure, with seven abstentions. Lawmakers are rushing to secure final approval before the end of the current congressional session in December. If enacted, the reform would mark a major shift in a country where drug cartel violence in recent years has claimed over 100,000 lives. The Supreme Court ruled in 2018 that recreational marijuana should be permitted, just one year after lawmakers legalized it for medicinal use. Socially conservative President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador has shied away from publicly backing the legalization push, but neither has he opposed it, and senior cabinet members like Interior Minister Olga Sanchez have openly called for a shift to legalization and regulation. Lopez Obrador’s left-of-centre Morena party, which backed the initiative, holds a majority in both chambers of Congress with its allies. The bill aims to “improve living conditions” and “contribute to the reduction of crime linked to drug trafficking,” according to its text. Weed companies have expressed interest in a future Mexican legal market, including Canada's Canopy Growth WEED.TO and The Green Organic Dutchman TGOD.TO, as well as a unit of California-based Medical Marijuana Inc MJNA.PK. The legislation would let users carry up to 28 grams and grow as many as four plants at home. Sales to adults in authorized businesses would be allowed, provided the product abides by maximum levels of psychoactive ingredients. Children would be prohibited from using the drug or any involvement in its cultivation and sales, and driving while high would be illegal. (With inputs from agencies)

Mexico’s Senate approves cannabis legalization bill in a landslide vote

Amid renewed fighting over <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/azerbaijan-hits-ballistic-missile-launch-site-in-armenia-in-nagorno-karabakh-conflict-335176">Nagorno-Karabakh</a>, a missile&nbsp;struck Azerbaijan's Ganja in the early hours of Saturday while most residents were asleep.

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/armenia-azerbaijan-accuse-each-other-of-truce-violation-335786/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Reports said at least 20 houses were destroyed due to the missile strike with at least 10 people killed.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/armenia-trying-to-attack-and-take-control-of-our-pipelines-azerbaijan-president-335356">Also Read | Armenia trying to attack and take control of our pipelines: Azerbaijan President</a>

As the fighting escalated, US secretary of state Mike Pompeo blamed Azerbaijan's ally Turkey saying: "Third-party countries coming in to lend their firepower to what is already a powder keg of a situation."

The fighting between Azerbaijan and Armenia had erupted on September 27 over the disputed Nagorno-Karabakh which is part of Azerbaijan but populated by majority ethnic Armenians.&nbsp;

Both countries had fought a war over&nbsp;Nagorno-Karabakh in the early 1990s after the breakup of the former Soviet Union in which at least 30,000 people were killed leading to a truce in 1994.

Reports said there was second missile strike in Ganja but it could not be confirmed amid heavy shelling in Stepanakert.

Armenia and Azerbaijan had reached a ceasefire agreement in Moscow last week however shelling began on the ground just hours after the peace deal was stuck. The Minsk group comprising of France, Russia and the United States had helped broker the peace deal amid fighting in the region.

Meanwhile, the Armenian defence ministry said Azerbaijan had conducted artillery bombardments on Nagorno-Karabakh from the north as both sides continue to accuse each other escalating the conflict.

Amid renewed fighting over Nagorno-Karabakh, a missile struck Azerbaijan's Ganja in the early hours of Saturday while most residents were asleep. Watch: Reports said at least 20 houses were destroyed due to the missile strike with at least 10 people killed.

Amid renewed fighting over Nagorno-Karabakh, a missile struck Azerbaijan's Ganja in the early hours of Saturday while most residents were asleep. Watch: Reports said at least 20 houses were destroyed due to the missile strike with at least 10 people killed. Also Read | Armenia trying to attack and take control of our pipelines: Azerbaijan President As the fighting escalated, US secretary of state Mike Pompeo blamed Azerbaijan's ally Turkey saying: "Third-party countries coming in to lend their firepower to what is already a powder keg of a situation." The fighting between Azerbaijan and Armenia had erupted on September 27 over the disputed Nagorno-Karabakh which is part of Azerbaijan but populated by majority ethnic Armenians. Both countries had fought a war over Nagorno-Karabakh in the early 1990s after the breakup of the former Soviet Union in which at least 30,000 people were killed leading to a truce in 1994. Reports said there was second missile strike in Ganja but it could not be confirmed amid heavy shelling in Stepanakert. Armenia and Azerbaijan had reached a ceasefire agreement in Moscow last week however shelling began on the ground just hours after the peace deal was stuck. The Minsk group comprising of France, Russia and the United States had helped broker the peace deal amid fighting in the region. Meanwhile, the Armenian defence ministry said Azerbaijan had conducted artillery bombardments on Nagorno-Karabakh from the north as both sides continue to accuse each other escalating the conflict.

Nagorno-Karabakh fighting: Missile hits Azerbaijan city, several dead

The hopes for a humanitarian ceasefire between Armenia & Azerbaijan sank deeper on Friday, as both sides continue to engage in new clashes. Azerbaijan accused Armenia for a missile attack in country's second largest city of Ganja.

Armenia-Azerbaijan ceasefire hopes sink as new clashes erupt

The hopes for a humanitarian ceasefire between Armenia & Azerbaijan sanked deep on Friday, as both sides continue to engage in new clashes. Azerbaijan accused Armenia for a missile attack in country's second largest city of Ganja.

According to Azerbaijan atleast 9 civilians have been killed in an air strike over the city of Ganja, it was believed to have been carried out by the Armenian forces.

Azerbaijan accuses Armenia of rocket attack in its second-largest city

Amid a "fragile peace" in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-ceasefire-armenia-says-azerbaijan-launching-attacks-towards-karakhanbeyli-334256">Nagorno-Karabakh</a> region, Pope Francis speaking after the Angelus prayer in Rome on Sunday said, "the truce proves to be too fragile".

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/armenia-azerbaijan-break-ceasefire-shelling-returns-after-a-brief-lull-334429/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"I pray and invite you to pray for the victims and for all those whose life is in danger," the Pope said, adding that the fighting should be resolved "not through the use of force and arms, but through dialogue and negotiation."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/armenia-and-azerbaijan-accuse-each-other-of-violating-fragile-truce-334365">Also Read:&nbsp;Armenia and Azerbaijan accuse each other of violating 'fragile' truce</a>

There were reports on Sunday of shelling on civilian areas by both sides even as the situation was reportedly calmer.The Pope's prayers come as &nbsp;Azerbaijan and Armenia accused each other of violating the ceasefire agreement. The two sides had met in Moscow as Russian negotiators led by foreign minister Lavrov was able to bind a shaky ceasefire even as fighting continued on the ground.

Azerbaijan's foreign ministry had said that there was overnight shelling in Ganja on Saturday leading to the death of at least seven people with several wounded, although the Armenian defence ministry said it was "an absolute lie".

Azerbaijan also accused Armenia of launching an unsuccessful rocket attack on a hydro-electric power station in Mingachevir. The fighting between the two nations has been the worst since the 1991-94 war in which at least 30,000 people were killed.

Nagorno-Karabakh is an ethnic Armenian enclave in Azerbaijan with a large Armenian population which had broken away from Azerbaijan. Both countries had gained independence after the breakup of the former Soviet Union in 1991.

Amid a "fragile peace" in Nagorno-Karabakh region, Pope Francis speaking after the Angelus prayer in Rome on Sunday said, "the truce proves to be too fragile". Watch: "I pray and invite you to pray for the victims and for all those whose life is in danger," the Pope said, adding that the fighting should be resolved "not through the use of force and arms, but through dialogue and negotiation.

Amid a "fragile peace" in Nagorno-Karabakh region, Pope Francis speaking after the Angelus prayer in Rome on Sunday said, "the truce proves to be too fragile". Watch: "I pray and invite you to pray for the victims and for all those whose life is in danger," the Pope said, adding that the fighting should be resolved "not through the use of force and arms, but through dialogue and negotiation." Also Read: Armenia and Azerbaijan accuse each other of violating 'fragile' truce There were reports on Sunday of shelling on civilian areas by both sides even as the situation was reportedly calmer.The Pope's prayers come as Azerbaijan and Armenia accused each other of violating the ceasefire agreement. The two sides had met in Moscow as Russian negotiators led by foreign minister Lavrov was able to bind a shaky ceasefire even as fighting continued on the ground. Azerbaijan's foreign ministry had said that there was overnight shelling in Ganja on Saturday leading to the death of at least seven people with several wounded, although the Armenian defence ministry said it was "an absolute lie". Azerbaijan also accused Armenia of launching an unsuccessful rocket attack on a hydro-electric power station in Mingachevir. The fighting between the two nations has been the worst since the 1991-94 war in which at least 30,000 people were killed. Nagorno-Karabakh is an ethnic Armenian enclave in Azerbaijan with a large Armenian population which had broken away from Azerbaijan. Both countries had gained independence after the breakup of the former Soviet Union in 1991.

'Truce too fragile': Pope Francis calls for dialogue as Karabakh ceasefire under severe strain

At least 5 people were killed after a rocket hit a residential building in Azerbaijan's city Ganja, the press service of Azerbaijan`s Ministry of Emergency Situations said on Sunday. Azerbaijan's Defense Ministry said in the early hours of Sunday that Ganja was shelled by Armenia.

"As a result of the rocket fire, a residential building was fully destroyed. As of now, the bodies of five dead have been recovered from the rubble; there are 17 wounded. Rescuers are working on the spot," the Sunday statement from the press service of Azerbaijan`s Ministry of Emergency Situations says.

Azerbaijan`s Prosecutor General`s Office said on Sunday that at least five people were killed and 28 others were injured in Ganja.&nbsp;

Armenia and Azerbaijan are accusing each of violating ceasefire in the conflict that has erupted over the region of Nagorno-Karabach.

Fresh explosions rocked the capital of the disputed Nagorno-Karabakh region on Saturday despite the ceasefire.

Armenia and Azerbaijan had agreed to a ceasefire after Russia mediated talks in Moscow. The talks in Moscow was first diplomatic contact between both sides since the hostilities erupted.

When the ceasefire collapsed, Armenian defence ministry accused Azerbaijan of shelling a settlement inside Armenia, while ethnic Armenian forces in Karabakh alleged that Azeri forces had launched a new offensive five minutes after the truce took hold and killed two civilians.

(With ANI inputs) 
&nbsp;

At least 5 people were killed after a rocket hit a residential building in Azerbaijan's city Ganja, the press service of Azerbaijan`s Ministry of Emergency Situations said on Sunday.

At least 5 people were killed after a rocket hit a residential building in Azerbaijan's city Ganja, the press service of Azerbaijan`s Ministry of Emergency Situations said on Sunday. Azerbaijan's Defense Ministry said in the early hours of Sunday that Ganja was shelled by Armenia. "As a result of the rocket fire, a residential building was fully destroyed. As of now, the bodies of five dead have been recovered from the rubble; there are 17 wounded. Rescuers are working on the spot," the Sunday statement from the press service of Azerbaijan`s Ministry of Emergency Situations says. Azerbaijan`s Prosecutor General`s Office said on Sunday that at least five people were killed and 28 others were injured in Ganja. Armenia and Azerbaijan are accusing each of violating ceasefire in the conflict that has erupted over the region of Nagorno-Karabach. Fresh explosions rocked the capital of the disputed Nagorno-Karabakh region on Saturday despite the ceasefire. Armenia and Azerbaijan had agreed to a ceasefire after Russia mediated talks in Moscow. The talks in Moscow was first diplomatic contact between both sides since the hostilities erupted. When the ceasefire collapsed, Armenian defence ministry accused Azerbaijan of shelling a settlement inside Armenia, while ethnic Armenian forces in Karabakh alleged that Azeri forces had launched a new offensive five minutes after the truce took hold and killed two civilians. (With ANI inputs)

Rocket destroys residential building in Azerbaijan's Ganja city, 5 dead

High-potency cannabis, especially when used daily, is "strongly linked" to the risk of developing psychotic disorders such as schizophrenia and paranoia, scientists said Wednesday.

In Amsterdam and London —&nbsp;where high-THC marijuana has long been the rule rather than the exception —&nbsp;50 and 30 percent of new psychosis cases, respectively, were associated with potent forms of the drug.

The findings, reported The Lancet, bolster a growing body of research connecting pot to a range of mental health disorders.

With piecemeal legalisation and decriminalisation, consumption in North America and Europe has increased markedly over the last two decades, even as levels of the drug's mind-bending molecule, delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), have risen four- or five-fold. &nbsp;

"The use of cannabis with a high concentration of THC has more harmful effects on mental health than the use of weaker forms," said lead author Marta Di Forti, a professor at the Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience at King's College London.&nbsp;

"Our findings also indicate for the first time how cannabis use affects the incidence of psychotic disorder at a population level."

Across 11 European cities or regions, and a 12th in Brazil, one in five new cases of psychosis were associated to daily cannabis use, and one in ten to high potency pot, the study found.

Trainwreck, gorilla glue 
If high-THC cannabis -- including strains such as "trainwreck", "gorilla glue", and "hindu kush" -- were no longer available, "12 percent of cases of first-episode psychosis could be prevented across Europe," the researchers calculated.

In Amsterdam, the incidence of first-time psychosis would likely drop from 38 to 19 per 100,000 people per year, while in London, the number of cases would decline from 46 to 32 per 100,000 people.&nbsp;

"As the legal status of cannabis changes in many countries and states, and as we consider the medicinal properties of some types of cannabis, it is of vital public health importance to consider the potential adverse effects that are associated with daily cannabis use, especially high potency varieties," said Di Forti.

The researchers established a baseline by identifying -- in the cities and regions examined -- all individuals known to have experienced a first episode of psychosis from 2010 to 2015. They found 901 cases.

These were then compared to 1,237 healthy adults to tease out the risk factors associated with psychosis.

All participants provided information about how frequently they had used marijuana and other drugs over a period of years. The scientists also classified the potency of the cannabis consumed as either "high" (over 10 percent THC) or "low" (under 10 percent THC).

In some locations, THC levels are 20 percent or higher, they noted.

Nearly 30 percent of patients who had experienced a first episode of psychosis were daily cannabis users, compared with less than seven percent of those in the control group.

For high potency pot, the corresponding figures were 37 and 19 percent.

Adjusting for social factors and other drug use, the authors found that daily cannabis users were three times more likely to experience psychosis for the first time than people who had never used it.

For daily use of high-potency cannabis, this increased to five times.

While the correlation between marijuana use and mental disorders was strong, a cause-and-effect relationship can only be inferred, the authors cautioned.

However the registrar at the Royal College of Psychiatrists, Adrian James, said the findings were to be "taken seriously," and that his institution "is reviewing the mental health effect of cannabis use."

David Nutt, head of the centre for neuropsychopharmacology at Imperial College London, said it was "important to realise that THC is well known to produce psychosis in healthy volunteers -- people without a predisposition to mental illness".

High-potency cannabis, especially when used daily, is "strongly linked" to the risk of developing psychotic disorders such as schizophrenia and paranoia, scientists said Wednesday.

High-potency cannabis, especially when used daily, is "strongly linked" to the risk of developing psychotic disorders such as schizophrenia and paranoia, scientists said Wednesday. In Amsterdam and London — where high-THC marijuana has long been the rule rather than the exception — 50 and 30 percent of new psychosis cases, respectively, were associated with potent forms of the drug. The findings, reported The Lancet, bolster a growing body of research connecting pot to a range of mental health disorders. With piecemeal legalisation and decriminalisation, consumption in North America and Europe has increased markedly over the last two decades, even as levels of the drug's mind-bending molecule, delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), have risen four- or five-fold. "The use of cannabis with a high concentration of THC has more harmful effects on mental health than the use of weaker forms," said lead author Marta Di Forti, a professor at the Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience at King's College London. "Our findings also indicate for the first time how cannabis use affects the incidence of psychotic disorder at a population level." Across 11 European cities or regions, and a 12th in Brazil, one in five new cases of psychosis were associated to daily cannabis use, and one in ten to high potency pot, the study found. Trainwreck, gorilla glue If high-THC cannabis -- including strains such as "trainwreck", "gorilla glue", and "hindu kush" -- were no longer available, "12 percent of cases of first-episode psychosis could be prevented across Europe," the researchers calculated. In Amsterdam, the incidence of first-time psychosis would likely drop from 38 to 19 per 100,000 people per year, while in London, the number of cases would decline from 46 to 32 per 100,000 people. "As the legal status of cannabis changes in many countries and states, and as we consider the medicinal properties of some types of cannabis, it is of vital public health importance to consider the potential adverse effects that are associated with daily cannabis use, especially high potency varieties," said Di Forti. The researchers established a baseline by identifying -- in the cities and regions examined -- all individuals known to have experienced a first episode of psychosis from 2010 to 2015. They found 901 cases. These were then compared to 1,237 healthy adults to tease out the risk factors associated with psychosis. All participants provided information about how frequently they had used marijuana and other drugs over a period of years. The scientists also classified the potency of the cannabis consumed as either "high" (over 10 percent THC) or "low" (under 10 percent THC). In some locations, THC levels are 20 percent or higher, they noted. Nearly 30 percent of patients who had experienced a first episode of psychosis were daily cannabis users, compared with less than seven percent of those in the control group. For high potency pot, the corresponding figures were 37 and 19 percent. Adjusting for social factors and other drug use, the authors found that daily cannabis users were three times more likely to experience psychosis for the first time than people who had never used it. For daily use of high-potency cannabis, this increased to five times. While the correlation between marijuana use and mental disorders was strong, a cause-and-effect relationship can only be inferred, the authors cautioned. However the registrar at the Royal College of Psychiatrists, Adrian James, said the findings were to be "taken seriously," and that his institution "is reviewing the mental health effect of cannabis use." David Nutt, head of the centre for neuropsychopharmacology at Imperial College London, said it was "important to realise that THC is well known to produce psychosis in healthy volunteers -- people without a predisposition to mental illness".

High-potency pot 'strongly linked' to psychosis: Study

Israeli soldiers who smoke cannabis have so far been systematically court-martialled and have received prison sentences of up to two months but the army said Wednesday that it would begin to ease up on the policy.&nbsp;

Danny Efroni, the general overseeing the reform, told military radio Wednesday that soldiers caught smoking marijuana (while on leave) would no longer be court-martialled nor sent to prison.&nbsp;

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<h5>The pot-smoking soldiers would have to undergo regular tests to ascertain that, after their &#39;misdemeanour&#39;, they are staying away from the drug</h5>
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But that they would after that have to undergo regular tests to ascertain that, after their &quot;misdemeanour&quot;, they are staying away from the drug. &nbsp;

The new policy -- which goes into effect January 1 -- does not apply to soldiers on duty.&nbsp;

&quot;We are offering soldiers the chance to continue their service normally and not be imprisoned and hindered by a criminal record in civilian life,&quot; AFP reported&nbsp;Efroni as saying.

&quot;The army wants to give a second chance to soldiers who want to complete a proper military service and to return to the right path,&quot; AFP reported the military as saying in a statement.&nbsp;

The use of marijuana is illegal in Israel except for medical purposes.

The Haaretz daily reported that 128 soldiers were convicted last year for using narcotics.&nbsp;

(WION with inputs from AFP)

Offending soldiers will no longer be systematically court-martialled nor receive prison sentences of up to two months

Israeli soldiers who smoke cannabis have so far been systematically court-martialled and have received prison sentences of up to two months but the army said Wednesday that it would begin to ease up on the policy. Danny Efroni, the general overseeing the reform, told military radio Wednesday that soldiers caught smoking marijuana (while on leave) would no longer be court-martialled nor sent to prison. The pot-smoking soldiers would have to undergo regular tests to ascertain that, after their 'misdemeanour', they are staying away from the drug × But that they would after that have to undergo regular tests to ascertain that, after their "misdemeanour", they are staying away from the drug. The new policy -- which goes into effect January 1 -- does not apply to soldiers on duty. "We are offering soldiers the chance to continue their service normally and not be imprisoned and hindered by a criminal record in civilian life," AFP reported Efroni as saying. "The army wants to give a second chance to soldiers who want to complete a proper military service and to return to the right path," AFP reported the military as saying in a statement. The use of marijuana is illegal in Israel except for medical purposes. The Haaretz daily reported that 128 soldiers were convicted last year for using narcotics. (WION with inputs from AFP)

Israel to go easy on soldiers who smoke pot (while on leave)

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