India is hosting the inaugural United Nations Fellowship Training Programme on Small Arms and Light Weapons control for the Asia-Pacific region. It is the first such programme in Asia and is being held at the Military College of Materials Management in Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, from 16 February to 6 March 2026. The three-week fellowship is organised under the United Nations framework with support from India’s Ministry of External Affairs and Ministry of Defence.
Programme Objective
The fellowship is designed to strengthen the technical and operational capacity of officials responsible for implementing global disarmament tools. These include the United Nations Programme of Action on Small Arms and Light Weapons and the International Tracing Instrument. Both frameworks aim to curb illicit trade, diversion, and misuse of small arms and light weapons.
Participation and Scope
- Delegates from 13 Asia-Pacific countries are taking part.
- The programme focuses on tracing, stockpile management, and arms control practices.
- It supports regional cooperation against illicit arms flows.
India’s Role in Disarmament
India’s hosting of the fellowship reflects its growing role in multilateral peace and security efforts. The initiative marks India’s institutional capacity in military training, safe stockpile management, accountability systems, and environmentally responsible disposal of arms and ammunition. It also reinforces India’s image as a trusted partner in international security cooperation.
Last Modified: April 28, 2026