At least 565 Indian peacekeepers, including 53 women, serving with the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), have been honored for their dedication and commitment to protecting civilians and supporting peacebuilding efforts in the conflict-affected region.
The peacekeepers were recognized for their initiatives aimed at “protecting civilians through patrols, community engagement, veterinary camps, women’s self-defense training, combating gender-based violence, and improving humanitarian access,” according to the UN. The term “Blue Helmets” describes military personnel, police officers, and civilian experts operating under the command of UN peacekeeping forces.
In a statement on social media, the Permanent Mission of India to the UN commended the Indian contingent, stating, “Indian Blue Helmets have consistently upheld the highest standards of professionalism in all their spheres of operation.” India ranks as the second-largest contributor of uniformed personnel to UN peacekeeping missions, following Nepal.
Currently, India contributes more than 4,200 military and police personnel, which includes 155 women, across various missions in areas such as Abyei, the Central African Republic, Cyprus, Congo, Lebanon, the Middle East, Somalia, South Sudan, and Western Sahara. The nation has mourned nearly 180 Indian peacekeepers who have lost their lives while serving, which is the highest number among troop-contributing countries.
