India proud of its contributions to UN peacekeeping: EAM Jaishankar

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Speaking at the two-day Conference on Women Peacekeepers from the Global South (Feb 24-25) at the Manekshaw Centre, Jaishankar highlighted India’s ongoing efforts through the Centre for UN Peacekeeping (CUNPK). He emphasised that India will continue to offer training and capacity-building programmes, including specialised courses for women peacekeepers, as was done with ASEAN countries in 2023.

The conference, hosted by CUNPK in collaboration with the Ministry of External Affairs and the Ministry of Defence, has brought together women peacekeepers from 35 nations. The discussions focus on the evolving role of women in peacekeeping operations and strategies to enhance their participation in these crucial missions.

Jaishankar reiterated India’s peacekeeping philosophy, rooted in dialogue, diplomacy and cooperation. He stressed that guided by the principle of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam — the belief that “the world is one family” — India remains dedicated to making meaningful contributions to UN peacekeeping efforts.

Indian Army Chief Lt Gen NS Raja Subramani noted India’s role as a key partner in the Global South, bringing extensive experience, resources and expertise to the table. “We, as representatives of the Global South, stand together in strength, resilience and unwavering commitment to global peace,” he said.

Since the 1950s, India has contributed over 2,90,000 peacekeepers to more than 50 missions. Currently, over 5,000 Indian peacekeepers are deployed in nine of the 11 active UN missions, underscoring the nation’s steadfast role in global peace efforts.