The President of Philippines declared martial rule for 60 days in the country’s south and cut short a visit to Moscow after Muslim extremists allied with the Islamic State laid siege to a city in the southern part of the country.
World’s Largest Aircraft
The world’s largest aircraft has successfully completed a test flight, bringing the massive helium-filled airship one step closer to commercial use.
The hybrid aircraft dubbed the Airlander 10 combines technology from airplanes, helicopters and airships.
With a length of 92 metres, it is the largest aircraft currently flying.
Japan Passes Controversial Anti-terror Bill
Japan's lower house of parliament passed a controversial bill to crack down on people planning terrorism and other organised crimes, despite concerns it threatens civil rights.
The government of Prime Minister Shinzo Abe argues the legislation is necessary to prevent terrorism ahead of the 2020 Olympic Games.
The more powerful lower house controlled by Abe's coalition passed the bill, which now goes to the upper house, where the government enjoys a comfortable majority.
Voltas and Ardutch to Set up a Joint Venture Company
Air-conditioner maker Voltas and Turkey's Ardutch have agreed to set up a joint venture company in India with equity capital of $100 million, marking the former's foray into consumer durables sector.
The new company to be incorporated in India will be an equal partnership joint venture.
Debit Card for Farmers
IFFCO, the world's largest fertiliser cooperative, launched its co-branded debit card for farmers in collaboration with the Bank of Baroda.
IFFCO and Bank of Baroda had signed an MoU in February to create the co-branded debit cards for farmers.
Under this scheme, a bank account with Bank of Baroda would be opened after the farmer deposits Rs 100 and provides his Aadhaar card.
Central Bank of India to Raise Rs. 6,500 crore
Central Bank of India will raise up to Rs. 6,500 crore this fiscal through various means, including preferential issue or follow on public offer.
The board of directors approved the proposal pending approval from shareholders to raise the equity capital of up to Rs. 6,500 crore during 2017-18.
Scientists have revealed that freeze-dried sperm stored for over nine months aboard the ISS has yielded healthy mice offspring, for the first time, suggesting that assisted reproduction may be possible for humans living in space in the future.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi pushed for an Asia-Africa Growth Corridor which involves India and Japan. Research institutions of the two countries have come up with a vision document to explore joint initiatives in skills, health, infrastructure, manufacturing and connectivity in Africa.
Lt Gen Gurpal Singh Sangha
Lt Gen Gurpal Singh Sangha took over as the General Officer Commanding, Bengal Area, of the Army.
He replaced outgoing GOC, Bengal Area, Lt Gen Giri Raj Singh.