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India's Legacy in UN Peacekeeping Efforts

Understanding India's Contributions and Impact

India's Legacy in UN Peacekeeping Efforts

  • 08 Jun, 2024
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Understanding UN Peacekeeping Missions

UN peacekeeping missions represent the United Nations' efforts to assist nations suffering from conflict in establishing enduring peace. These missions deploy military, police, and civilian personnel to uphold peace and security, facilitate humanitarian assistance, and bolster the rule of law.

India's Contribution to UN Peacekeeping

As of December 31, 2023, India has contributed a total of 5,901 military personnel to various UN peacekeeping missions, positioning itself as the largest contributor globally.

Other Major Contributors

Following India, Nepal ranks second with 5,878 personnel, followed by Uganda with 5,764 and Bangladesh with 5,393. Pakistan stands seventh with 4,299 personnel deployed.

Historical Context of India's Involvement

India's involvement in UN peacekeeping dates back to 1950, with approximately 286,000 Indian soldiers having participated in missions worldwide. The country has a distinguished history, contributing to 49 missions with nearly 195,000 troops and numerous police personnel.

The Significance of India's Contribution

India has provided the highest number of troops to UN missions, with 168 Indian peacekeepers having made the ultimate sacrifice while serving under the UN flag. The performance of Indian peacekeepers is highly esteemed, particularly under demanding conditions.

Roles of Indian Peacekeepers

Indian personnel take on various responsibilities in these missions. They are tasked with maintaining peace and security, escorting humanitarian relief, upholding human rights, combating gender-based violence, and aiding in the restoration of the rule of law.

Beyond Troop Contributions

India's support for UN peacekeeping extends beyond troop contributions. The country has supplied distinguished Force Commanders and high-level advisors to UN missions. Additionally, India actively supports the UN Peacebuilding Fund and advocates for comprehensive, well-resourced peacekeeping operations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What are UN peacekeeping missions?
Answer: UN peacekeeping missions aim to assist countries in conflict by establishing conditions for lasting peace, utilizing military, police, and civilian personnel.

Q2. How many Indian military personnel are involved in UN peacekeeping?
Answer: India contributes 5,901 military personnel to UN peacekeeping missions, making it the largest contributor as of December 31, 2023.

Q3. Which countries follow India in troop contributions?
Answer: Nepal, Uganda, and Bangladesh follow India in contributions, with personnel numbers of 5,878, 5,764, and 5,393 respectively.

Q4. When did India start participating in UN peacekeeping missions?
Answer: India's involvement in UN peacekeeping began in 1950, with a total of about 286,000 Indian soldiers having served since then.

Q5. What roles do Indian peacekeepers fulfill in UN missions?
Answer: Indian peacekeepers are engaged in maintaining peace, facilitating humanitarian aid, and supporting human rights and the rule of law in conflict areas.

UPSC Practice MCQs

Question 1: What is the main objective of UN peacekeeping missions?
A) To enforce international law
B) To assist nations in conflict to achieve peace
C) To promote trade agreements
D) To support military interventions
Correct Answer: B

Question 2: As of 2023, how many military personnel has India sent to UN peacekeeping?
A) 4,299
B) 5,901
C) 5,393
D) 6,000
Correct Answer: B

Question 3: Which country ranks second in troop contributions to UN peacekeeping after India?
A) Bangladesh
B) Uganda
C) Nepal
D) Pakistan
Correct Answer: C

Question 4: How many Indian peacekeepers have lost their lives while serving in UN missions?
A) 150
B) 168
C) 200
D) 250
Correct Answer: B

Question 5: In which year did India start its involvement in UN peacekeeping missions?
A) 1945
B) 1950
C) 1960
D) 1970
Correct Answer: B

Question 6: What type of personnel are involved in UN peacekeeping missions?
A) Only military
B) Military, police, and civilian
C) Only civilian
D) Only police
Correct Answer: B

Question 7: How many Indian soldiers have served in UN peacekeeping missions historically?
A) 100,000
B) 200,000
C) 286,000
D) 350,000
Correct Answer: C

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