Recently, the Indian peacekeepers stationed in South Sudan have been awarded the United Nations (UN) medal for their exceptional service and substantial contribution to the peace-building process within the troubled nation.
What is UN Peacekeeping?
United Nations Peacekeeping plays an instrumental role in ushering countries on a tumultuous trek from conflict to peace. The process involves deploying troops and police personnel from diverse corners of the world, tactfully combining these forces with civilian peacekeepers. These mixed units endeavor to fulfill a variety of mandates as determined by the UN Security Council (UNSC) and the General Assembly.
The Role of India in UN Peacekeeping Missions
India has been a devoted contributor to UN peacekeeping missions. Currently, India has over 6,700 troops and police personnel deployed across various UN peacekeeping missions. This places India as the fourth highest contributor of personnel among all troop-contributing countries.
In the history of UN peacekeeping, since its inception in 1948, more than 200,000 Indians have honorably served in 49 out of the 71 missions established worldwide. India’s commitment to global peace resonates through its unwaivered contribution to peacekeeping operations over the decades.
Indian Women in UN Peacekeeping Missions
India has been trailblazing in terms of integrating women into peacekeeping missions. It’s noteworthy that in 2007, India became the first country to send an all-female contingent to a UN peacekeeping mission. This pioneering step opened opportunities and encouraged other nations to appreciate the crucial role of women in peacekeeping operations.
HTML Table on India’s Contribution to UN Peacekeeping
| Facts about India’s Contribution to UN Peacekeeping | |
|---|---|
| Troops and police from India currently deployed in UN peacekeeping missions | More than 6,700 |
| India’s position amongst troop-contributing countries | Fourth highest |
| Total number of Indians who have served in UN peacekeeping missions since 1948 | More than 200,000 |
| Number of UN peacekeeping missions in which Indians have served | 49 out of 71 |
| Year India sent an all-women contingent to a UN peacekeeping mission | 2007 |
Indian Peacekeepers Serving Globally
Indian peacekeeping forces are prominently recognized for their service in various UN peacekeeping missions worldwide. The most recent recognition comes from South Sudan, where Indian peacekeepers were presented the coveted United Nations medal, acknowledging their valuable contribution to the country’s peace process.
