NEWS 29-03-2026. News For 3rd-Apr (Friday) *National News* 1. India’s unemployment rate declined to 6.5% in 2025, down from 7.0% in 2024. 2. The ASI has begun fresh excavations at the Balirajgarh site in Madhubani, Bihar, to study ancient civilisation. 3. India’s Census 2027 began Phase 1 on April 1, 2026, marking the country’s first fully digital census. 4. Andhra Pradesh will launch India’s first quantum computer in Amaravati on April 14, 2026. *Defence News* 1. The IAF has begun work on its first helicopter-dropped drone project named “Vayu Baan”. 2. China has deployed 42 research vessels and numerous ocean sensors across the Pacific, Indian and Arctic oceans to map subsea environments for submarine warfare capabilities. 3. Lt Gen Pushpendra Pal Singh has assumed the duties of Army Cdr Western Command on April 1 2026. 4. Indian Air Force will equip its MiG-29 fighter jets with ASRAAM missiles, replacing the R-73 to enhance air combat capability. 5. India will receive its fourth S-400 Triumf air defence system by the end of April, with deployment planned in the western sector. *International News* 1. Russia launched over 270 drones in an overnight attack on Ukraine, killing 5 people. 2. Indonesia has become the first Southeast Asian country to ban social media access for children under 16 to regulate digital platform usage. 3. Russia plans to suspend gasoline exports for four months from April 1, 2026, to secure domestic supplies and stabilise fuel prices. *Sport News* 1. Sheetal Devi was named Para Archer of the Year 2025 by World Archery, recognising her outstanding achievements in para archery. < < Back