Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh has called for innovative approaches and enhanced cooperation among responsible nations to ensure the safety & effectiveness of United Nations (UN) Peacekeepers who are deployed in violence-hit regions to maintain stability, prevent conflicts, and facilitate the restoration of peace. He was addressing a special commemorative seminar, organized by the Indian Army, to celebrate 75 years of UN Peacekeeping, in New Delhi.
Shri Rajnath Singh highlighted the fast-evolving challenges being faced by peacekeepers today and stressed the need to invest more in training, technology & resources for their safety and productivity. He also advocated for the meaningful participation of women in peacekeeping operations, emphasizing that their unique contribution during missions in conflict-affected areas must be recognized.
The Raksha Mantri reiterated the necessity to make the UN decision-making bodies, including the Security Council (UNSC), more reflective of the 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. Therefore, the time has come for making the UN bodies more democratic and representative of the current realities of our age,” he said.
Shri Rajnath Singh commended the role of UN peacekeeping operations and explained the enthusiastic global support for such missions through the economic concept of ‘externalities.
India has a rich legacy of contribution to UN Peacekeeping operations and is one of the largest contributors of troops. It has contributed approximately 2.75 lakh troops to peacekeeping missions so far, with around 5,900 troops currently deployed in 12 UN missions. Since its first commitment to Korea in 1950, Indian troops have supervised complex, unmanageable peace operations, earning universal admiration for their professional excellence.
The Raksha Mantri expressed gratitude to all the Indians who have served or are currently serving as UN peacekeepers. “Our courageous soldiers, police personnel, and civilian experts have demonstrated exceptional dedication and unwavering commitment to the cause of peace. 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. Their unwavering commitment, professionalism, and sacrifices inspire us all,” he said.
Shri Rajnath Singh extended his condolences to the families who have lost their loved ones in the line of duty and offered them the Government’s support. He called for honoring the sacrifices of the peacekeepers by building a more just, peaceful, and inclusive world. “Let us renew our commitment to promoting dialogue, understanding, and cooperation among & within the nations. Together, we can build a future where every individual can live in peace, harmony, and with dignity,” he added.
(With inputs from agencies)
