Major Swathi Shantha Kumar, an Indian Army officer, has recently gained international acclaim by receiving the UN Secretary-General’s Award 2025 for her groundbreaking work in gender-inclusive peacekeeping. Her service with the United Nations Mission in South Sudan showcases the profound impact that inclusive leadership can have on fostering community trust, enhancing women’s participation, and promoting long-term peace in regions affected by conflict.
The UN Secretary-General’s Award 2025 in the Gender Category was awarded to Major Swathi for her innovative project, “Equal Partners, Lasting Peace.” This project was selected from numerous nominations across various UN peacekeeping missions worldwide. The announcement was made by Antonio Guterres, emphasizing the importance of initiatives aimed at advancing gender parity and gender-responsive peacekeeping strategies.
The recognition was made possible through a comprehensive UN-wide voting process, which included personnel from diverse missions. Major Swathi’s project stood out for its dedication to improving the role of women in peacekeeping efforts.
As the leader of the Indian Engagement Team under the United Nations Mission in South Sudan, Major Swathi played a crucial role in enhancing the deployment and integration of women peacekeepers. This initiative facilitated effective patrols, community outreach, and ensured safer access to remote areas affected by conflict.
The initiative directly benefited over 5,000 women, creating a safer environment and encouraging their active participation in community activities. By fostering grassroots-level trust, it improved the local community's confidence in UN missions. Major Swathi’s leadership exemplifies how gender-inclusive strategies can significantly contribute to lasting peace and stability in conflict zones.
Q1. What is the UN Secretary-General’s Award 2025?
Answer: The UN Secretary-General’s Award 2025 recognizes exceptional contributions to peacekeeping, particularly those promoting gender inclusivity and parity within missions.
Q2. Who is Major Swathi Shantha Kumar?
Answer: Major Swathi Shantha Kumar is an Indian Army officer honored with the UN Secretary-General’s Award 2025 for her project on gender-inclusive peacekeeping in South Sudan.
Q3. What is the “Equal Partners, Lasting Peace” project?
Answer: It is a project led by Major Swathi that focuses on integrating women peacekeepers into missions, enhancing safety, and fostering community trust in conflict-affected areas.
Q4. How has Major Swathi’s project impacted women in South Sudan?
Answer: The project has directly supported over 5,000 women, creating a safer environment for their involvement in community activities and enhancing their role in peace initiatives.
Q5. Why is gender inclusivity important in peacekeeping?
Answer: Gender inclusivity in peacekeeping enhances trust, improves community relations, and fosters sustainable peace by ensuring diverse perspectives in conflict resolution.
Question 1: What award did Major Swathi Shantha Kumar win in 2025?
A) UN Peacekeeping Medal
B) UN Secretary-General’s Award
C) International Women of Courage Award
D) Gandhi Peace Prize
Correct Answer: B
Question 2: What is the main focus of the “Equal Partners, Lasting Peace” project?
A) Economic development
B) Gender-inclusive peacekeeping
C) Military training
D) Humanitarian aid
Correct Answer: B
Question 3: In which country is Major Swathi’s project implemented?
A) India
B) South Sudan
C) Afghanistan
D) Iraq
Correct Answer: B
Question 4: How many women did Major Swathi's project directly support?
A) 1,000
B) 2,500
C) 5,000
D) 10,000
Correct Answer: C
Question 5: Who announced the award for Major Swathi Shantha Kumar?
A) Ban Ki-moon
B) Antonio Guterres
C) Kofi Annan
D) Amina J. Mohammed
Correct Answer: B
Question 6: What is the primary benefit of gender-inclusive leadership in peacekeeping?
A) Increased funding
B) Enhanced community trust
C) More weapons
D) Stronger military presence
Correct Answer: B
Question 7: Which mission is Major Swathi associated with?
A) UNIFIL
B) UNMISS
C) MONUSCO
D) UNAMID
Correct Answer: B
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