A severe heat wave sweeping through India has claimed at least 12 lives in Rajasthan this week. The deaths, reported in various districts including Jalore, Barmer, Alwar, and Jaisalmer, are suspected to be due to heat stroke-like symptoms. While the exact cause is yet to be confirmed, officials say the scorching temperatures, which reached a high of 48.8 degrees Celsius in Barmer, are likely to blame. The heat wave continues to grip large parts of India, leaving many more vulnerable to its deadly effects.

A new study reveals that daily cannabis use has exceeded daily alcohol consumption in the US for the first time. According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, an estimated 17.7 million Americans use cannabis daily or near-daily, surpassing the 14.7 million who drink alcohol as frequently. While alcohol remains more widely used, daily cannabis use has seen a 15-fold increase since 1992. Experts attribute this rise to reduced stigma and the growth of the legal cannabis industry, which now includes older adults as well. The findings mark a significant shift in American substance use habits.

Amit Khanvilkar's search for his wife Riddhi ended in tragedy when he identified her charred body at Shastri Nagar hospital after a blast at Amudan Chemicals factory in Dombivli. Riddhi, a mother of a 12-year-old, worked in the accounts department and had joined just three months ago. Amit, who couldn't reach her after the blast, circulated her pictures on social media before receiving a call to visit the hospital. There, he identified her body from a gold ring on her finger. The blast killed nine and injured over 60, leaving families devastated.

A 17-year-old's night out in Pune ended in tragedy, resulting in the deaths of two software engineers. The teenager, driving a Porsche, crashed into a bike after allegedly drinking at a pub, where he spent Rs 48,000. He later had pizza delivered to the police station before taking an alcohol test. The Pune Police are seeking to try him as an adult, citing his awareness of the risks of drink driving. The Juvenile Justice Board is currently hearing the case. The incident has sparked concern about underage drinking and driving.

A Singapore Airlines flight experienced severe turbulence, leading to an emergency landing in Bangkok. Of the 40 passengers hospitalized, 20 remain in intensive care. Injuries include spinal cord damage (22 cases) and brain and skull injuries (6 cases). Passengers aged 2-83 from the UK, Australia, Malaysia, and the Philippines are among those affected. One passenger has been discharged, and no life-threatening cases have been reported. The incident highlights the impact of turbulence on air travel.

India has jumped 15 spots to 39th place in the World Economic Forum's Travel & Tourism Development Index 2024, as global tourism recovers to pre-pandemic levels. India ranks highest in South Asia and among lower-middle-income economies, with the US topping the list. The country excels in price competitiveness, air transport, and natural and cultural resources, driving travel demand. Despite a decline in sustainability, India still scores well due to longer, more sustainable stays by inbound visitors. This marks a significant improvement from 54th place in 2021, showcasing India's growing appeal as a tourist destination.

Donald Trump held a campaign rally in the South Bronx, a predominantly Hispanic and black neighborhood. He aimed to win over minority voters, a crucial demographic in the presidential election. Trump spoke about his contributions to New York City and criticized its current state. He blamed Joe Biden and illegal immigration for economic issues affecting minority communities. The rally was Trump's first in New York in eight years. He shared the stage with Florida Congressman Byron Donalds, a potential running mate. The event was seen as an effort to gain support among ethnic minority voters.

Kamal Kishore, a top Indian official, has begun his term as the Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General for Disaster Risk Reduction and head of the UN Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR). He succeeds Mami Mizutori of Japan. Kishore emphasized the crucial role UNDRR plays in global efforts to reduce disaster risks, especially amidst increasing vulnerabilities. He expressed enthusiasm for building on the progress made so far, stating, "UNDRR's ambition matches the scale of the problem." His appointment was announced by UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on March 27.

Seven Maoists were killed in an encounter with security forces in Chhattisgarh's Narayanpur and Bijapur districts on Thursday. Acting on a tip, a joint team of around 1,000 personnel from the Bastar Fighters, District Reserve Guards, and Special Task Force launched an operation in the Abujhmad forest area. The Maoists opened fire, leading to intermittent firing throughout the day. Upon advancing, the forces found the bodies of seven Maoists, dressed in PLGA uniforms, along with their weapons. The encounter took place 40 kilometers from Dantewada district headquarters, marking a significant success for the security forces.

The USS Harder, a US Navy submarine, has been found in the South China Sea 80 years after it sank. The submarine was on its sixth patrol during World War II when it was lost in battle with a Japanese ship on August 24, 1944. All 79 crew members were killed. The wreck was discovered 3,000 feet underwater off the Philippine island of Luzon, with damage from a Japanese depth charge visible. The find is a significant discovery, honoring the sacrifices of the crew and serving as a reminder of the war's history.