Updates on 7 June 2026
All of June 2026 →8th India-Indonesia Joint Commission Meeting 2026
The 8th India-Indonesia Joint Commission Meeting was held on 7 June 2026 in New Delhi, co-chaired by India's External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar and Indonesian Foreign Minister Sugiono. The meeting, occurring after a four-year gap, reviewed the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership established in 2018 and India-Indonesia diplomatic relations celebrating 75 years in 2025. Discussions covered multiple sectors including defence, trade, maritime security, health, education, pharmaceuticals, digital connectivity, housing, and people-to-people exchanges, reflecting a strong and growing bilateral relationship. The meeting also affirmed cooperation in regional and multilateral fora, considering Indonesia's position as an ASEAN member and India's role as an ASEAN dialogue partner.
North Korea Declares Nuclear Programme ‘Absolutely Non-Negotiable’ in 2026
On 7 June 2026, Kim Yo Jong, sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, declared that North Korea’s nuclear weapons programme is "absolutely non-negotiable" and its nuclear status "absolutely irreversible." This statement reaffirmed North Korea’s commitment to its nuclear arsenal, which it considers essential to national sovereignty and security. The declaration comes ahead of Chinese President Xi Jinping's visit to Pyongyang, underscoring North Korea's firm stance against denuclearisation discussions. North Korea formally enshrined its nuclear status in its constitution in 2023 and continues to face United Nations Security Council sanctions. The country views its nuclear weapons as a deterrent against invasion and has estimated stockpiles of dozens of warheads.
South Korea Nominates Han Seong-sook as Prime Minister in June 2026
On 7 June 2026, South Korean President Lee Jae Myung nominated Han Seong-sook, the Minister for Small and Medium-sized Enterprises and Startups, as the next Prime Minister. Her appointment requires approval from the 300-member National Assembly. If confirmed, Han will be South Korea's first female Prime Minister in two decades and only the second woman to hold this office, following Han Myeong-sook's tenure from 2006 to 2007. This nomination follows the Democratic Party's recent victory in local elections on 3 June 2026. Han succeeds outgoing Prime Minister Kim Min-seok, who is expected to step down to run for the leadership of the ruling Democratic Party.
Salim Kumar, Renowned Malayalam Actor and National Award Winner, Passes Away at 56
Salim Kumar, a distinguished Malayalam actor famed primarily for his comedy and character roles, died on 6 June 2026 in Kochi at age 56. He had a film career spanning over three decades and acted in more than 300 Malayalam films. He won the National Film Award for Best Actor in 2010 for his performance in the film 'Adaminte Makan Abu', a prestigious recognition presented by the Government of India. His funeral was held with State honours at his residence in Chittattukara, North Paravur, Ernakulam district, conducted without religious rites. Kumar had serious health conditions, including a liver transplant and pneumonia, before his death.
Kerala Agricultural University Releases New Green Chilli Variety - KAU Thejaswini
On 7 June 2026, Kerala Agricultural University (KAU) released KAU Thejaswini, a new green chilli variety tailored to Kerala's farming conditions. This bush-type chilli exhibits high yield potential of 32.5 tonnes per hectare, produces about 84 fruits per plant weighing approximately 667 grams, with fruits measuring 11.29 cm in length. It offers medium pungency with 0.45% capsaicin content, is rich in Vitamin C (121 mg per 100 g) and oleoresin (15.1%), and shows tolerance to bacterial wilt and viral diseases. The variety is suitable for year-round cultivation in homesteads, kitchen gardens, and terrace cultivation, and was approved by the 30th State Seed Sub-Committee chaired by Tinku Biswal.
R Praggnanandhaa Becomes First Indian to Win Norway Chess 2026
On 5 June 2026, Indian Grandmaster R Praggnanandhaa made history by becoming the first Indian to win the prestigious Norway Chess tournament held in Oslo. He secured the title after defeating Germany’s Vincent Keymer in the final round, finishing with 18 points. The event, held from 25 May to 5 June, featured some of the world's top players, including Magnus Carlsen, reigning world champion D Gukesh, and Alireza Firouzja. Praggnanandhaa's victory is notable for his four consecutive classical game wins, including victories over Magnus Carlsen twice and the reigning World Champion Gukesh.