Need to invest more in UN peacekeepers, recognise role of women personnel: Rajnath

Indian peacekeepers are equipped with largely indigenous vehicles and equipment, says Army Chief

Need to invest more in UN peacekeepers: Rajnath

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh during the 75th anniversary of UN Peacekeepers Day, in New Delhi, Tuesday. (PTI)

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday said there is a need to invest more in training, technology and resources for the safety and productivity of United Nations (UN) Peacekeepers deployed in conflict-torn regions and called for the “meaningful participation” of women in peacekeeping operations.

He was addressing a special commemorative seminar organised by the Army to mark 75 years of UN Peacekeeping. Since its first commitment in Korea in 1950, India is one of the largest contributors of troops to UN Peacekeeping operations. It has contributed approximately 2.75 lakh troops to peacekeeping missions so far, with around 5,900 troops currently deployed in 12 UN missions.

Highlighting challenges faced by the peacekeepers, the Defence Minister said innovative approaches and enhanced cooperation among responsible nations are needed to ensure the safety and effectiveness of United Nations (UN) Peacekeepers for stability, prevention of conflicts and restoration of peace.

He also emphasised that the unique contribution of women in such missions must be recognised.

In his address, Singh said it is necessary to make the UN decision-making bodies, including the Security Council (UNSC), more reflective of demographic realities of the world.

“When India, the most populous nation, does not find a seat as a permanent member of the UNSC, it tends to undermine the moral legitimacy of the UN,” he said.

“Therefore, the time has come for making the UN bodies more democratic and representative of the current realities of our age,” he added.

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Talking about India’s contribution to UN peacekeeping operations, he said, “Our courageous soldiers, police personnel and civilian experts have demonstrated exceptional dedication and unwavering commitment to the cause of peace.” He said they have selflessly served in some of the most challenging and dangerous environments, “embodying the spirit of peacekeeping and upholding the principles enshrined in the UN Charter”.

The Army Chief said India has close to 6,000 peacekeepers serving around the world on various operations — such as in Lebanon, Congo, South Sudan, Abyei, Golan Height — including female engagement teams in UN Organisation Stabilisation Mission in Congo (MONUSCO) and UN Interim Security Force for Abyei (UNISFA), besides women staff officers and military observers.

“They are equipped with largely indigenous vehicles and equipment, reflective of a self-reliant Atmanirbhar Bharat, in terms of defence production,” he said.

He also highlighted emerging new and complex security challenges and the Army’s readiness to fulfil India’s responsibility and commitment to the UN in partnership with fellow states.

Amrita Nayak Dutta

Amrita Nayak Dutta writes on defence and national security as part of the national bureau of The Indian Express. In the past, Amrita has extensively reported on the media industry and broadcasting matters, urban affairs, bureaucracy and government policies. In the last 14 years of her career, she has worked in newspapers as well as in the online media space and is well versed with the functioning of both newsrooms. Amrita has worked in the northeast, Mumbai and Delhi. She has travelled extensively across the country, including in far-flung border areas, to bring detailed reports from the ground and has written investigative reports on media and defence. She has been working for The Indian Express since January 2023. ... Read More

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