UN Medal Peacekeepers: 210 Indian Personnel Recognised in South Sudan

UPSC Mapping

Prelims	International Relations
Mains	GS Paper 2 (International Relations)

Awardees	210 Indian peacekeepers
Mission	UNMISS (South Sudan)
Global Rank (Uniformed)	2nd

Article

UN Medal Peacekeepers were awarded to 210 Indian peacekeepers serving with the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) for exceptional service in Juba. India is the second-largest contributor of uniformed personnel to UN Peacekeeping, with more than 4,200 military and police personnel deployed, including 155 women. For more such international relations updates, explore the international relations archive.

What is UN Medal Peacekeepers?

UN Medal Peacekeepers are awarded to military and police personnel serving in UN peacekeeping missions for exceptional service. The medal recognises their contribution to peace, security, and the protection of civilians in conflict-affected regions. Recently, 210 Indian peacekeepers serving with the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) were awarded the medal for their exceptional service in Juba.

India is the second-largest contributor of uniformed personnel to UN Peacekeeping, with more than 4,200 military and police personnel deployed in various missions, including 155 women. India was the largest troop contributor to UNMISS, with 1,775 Indian military personnel deployed. The recognition highlights India’s long-standing commitment to UN peacekeeping, humanitarian assistance, and international peace and security.

Why is UN Medal Peacekeepers in News?

UN Medal Peacekeepers is in the news because 210 Indian peacekeepers received the award for exceptional service in South Sudan. The recognition underscores India’s significant contribution to UN peacekeeping and its role as a responsible global actor.

India has been one of the largest contributors to UN peacekeeping since the inception of the missions. The deployment of women peacekeepers also highlights India’s commitment to gender equality and the empowerment of women in security roles. For more details, refer to this PIB release.

Key Features of UN Medal Peacekeepers

• Recognition: Awarded for exceptional service in UN peacekeeping missions.
• Mission: Awarded to personnel serving in missions like UNMISS.
• India’s Contribution: Second-largest contributor of uniformed personnel.
• Women Peacekeepers: 155 women among India’s 4,200 deployed personnel.
• UNMISS: India was the largest troop contributor to the South Sudan mission.

Challenges

• Security Risks: Peacekeepers operate in high-risk environments, facing threats from armed groups.
• Resource Constraints: Missions often lack adequate equipment and resources.
• Political Dynamics: Peacekeeping operations are constrained by the Security Council’s political divisions.
• Troop Fatigue: Long deployments and repeated rotations can affect morale and effectiveness.
• Gender Balance: Increasing women’s participation remains a challenge globally. For more on India’s global role, visit the international relations section.

Way Forward

To enhance the effectiveness of UN Medal Peacekeepers, the UN should ensure adequate resources and training for all contingents. Strengthening the protection of civilians mandate and improving intelligence-sharing can enhance mission effectiveness.

India should continue to contribute to peacekeeping, sharing its expertise in training and logistics. Increasing the deployment of women peacekeepers and supporting gender-sensitive approaches can improve community relations. For international best practices, refer to the UN Peacekeeping.

Prelims Practice Corner

Q1. How many Indian peacekeepers were awarded the UN Medal?

• (a) 100
• (b) 150
• (c) 210
• (d) 300

Answer: (c) 210 Indian peacekeepers received the medal.

Q2. In which mission were they serving?

• (a) MONUSCO
• (b) UNMISS
• (c) MINUSMA
• (d) UNIFIL

Answer: (b) They were serving in UNMISS in South Sudan.

Q3. What is India’s rank in UN peacekeeping contributions?

• (a) 1st
• (b) 2nd
• (c) 3rd
• (d) 4th

Answer: (b) India is the second-largest contributor.

Q4. How many women peacekeepers does India have?

• (a) 50
• (b) 100
• (c) 155
• (d) 200

Answer: (c) India has 155 women peacekeepers.

Q5. What is the UN Medal?

• (a) A medal for combat bravery
• (b) A medal for exceptional peacekeeping service
• (c) A medal for diplomatic service
• (d) A medal for humanitarian work

Answer: (b) It is awarded for exceptional service in UN peacekeeping missions.

Mains Practice Questions

Q1. Discuss India’s contribution to UN peacekeeping operations and its significance for India’s global standing. (250 words, 15 marks)

Answer Structure:

• Intro: Introduce India’s role in UN peacekeeping and the recent medal ceremony.
• Body: Discuss India’s historical contribution, current deployments, and the challenges faced. Highlight the significance for India’s soft power and multilateral engagement.
• Conclusion: Emphasise the need for continued commitment and reform.

Q2. What is the role of UN peacekeeping missions in maintaining international peace and security? (150 words, 10 marks)

Answer Structure:

• Intro: Define UN peacekeeping.
• Body: Explain its role in monitoring ceasefires, protecting civilians, and supporting peace processes. Mention the challenges and the need for reform.
• Conclusion: Conclude that peacekeeping remains a vital tool for international peace.

FAQs on UN Medal Peacekeepers

What is the UN Medal?

It is a medal awarded to UN peacekeepers for exceptional service in peacekeeping missions.

How many Indian peacekeepers are deployed globally?

India has over 4,200 military and police personnel, including 155 women.

What is UNMISS?

The United Nations Mission in South Sudan, where Indian peacekeepers were awarded.