Indian Peacekeepers in South Sudan Honored with UN Medal of Honour
A total of 565 Indian peacekeepers, including 53 women, serving within the United Nations Mission in South Sudan, have been honored with the distinguished United Nations Medal of Honour. This recognition is a testament to their commitment, professionalism, and substantial contributions to peacekeeping operations in the conflict-ridden African nation.
The medals were awarded to the Indian contingent members of UNMISS for their outstanding efforts in civilian protection, peacebuilding initiatives, and assistance to local communities throughout South Sudan.
The United Nations commended Indian peacekeepers for their crucial role in maintaining security and stability through various activities. These include conducting patrols, initiating community engagement programs, organizing veterinary camps, providing women's self-defense training, combating gender-based violence, and ensuring humanitarian access in vulnerable areas.
Those receiving the honor are part of the UN's Blue Helmets, which encompass military personnel, police officers, and civilian experts serving in United Nations peacekeeping operations worldwide.
The Permanent Mission of India to the United Nations congratulated the contingent, acknowledging the professionalism and dedication demonstrated by Indian peacekeepers.
In a statement, the mission emphasized that Indian Blue Helmets have consistently maintained the highest standards of professionalism in all operational areas, reflecting India's enduring legacy of service in UN peacekeeping missions.
India is among the leading contributors to UN peacekeeping operations globally and is currently the second-largest contributor of uniformed personnel, following Nepal. The nation deploys over 4,200 military and police personnel, including 155 women, to various UN missions in locations such as Abyei, the Central African Republic, Cyprus, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Lebanon, the Middle East, Somalia, South Sudan, and Western Sahara.
India's dedication to global peacekeeping has been marked by significant sacrifices, with nearly 180 Indian peacekeepers having lost their lives while serving under the United Nations flag, the highest number among troop-contributing countries.
The medal ceremony underscores the ongoing contributions of Indian Armed Forces personnel to international peace, stability, and humanitarian aid, reinforcing India's standing as a dependable and committed partner in global peacekeeping efforts.
