Last year, two brave Indian peacekeepers tragically lost their lives while serving under the United Nations banner. In a somber but proud recognition of their sacrifice, the UN will posthumously honor them with the prestigious Dag Hammarskjöld Medal. This week, the UN is observing the International Day of UN Peacekeepers, a time dedicated to acknowledging the selfless contributions of those who serve in conflict zones worldwide. Brigadier General Amitabh Jha, affiliated with the UN Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF), and Havildar Sanjay Singh, deployed with the United Nations Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (MONUSCO), will be awarded this esteemed medal during a ceremony at the United Nations on May 29th, marking the International Day of UN Peacekeepers. Their unwavering commitment and ultimate sacrifice highlight the inherent dangers faced by peacekeepers as they work tirelessly to bring stability and security to volatile regions.

India stands as a steadfast and significant contributor to UN peacekeeping missions, ranking as the fourth-largest provider of uniformed personnel globally. Currently, over 5,300 Indian military and police personnel are deployed across various UN peacekeeping operations in diverse locations such as Abyei, the Central African Republic, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Lebanon, Somalia, South Sudan, and Western Sahara. During the ceremonies held at the UN Headquarters for Peacekeeper Day, UN Secretary-General António Guterres will lay a wreath to honor the more than 4,400 UN peacekeepers who have lost their lives since 1948. Additionally, Guterres will preside over a ceremony where the Dag Hammarskjöld Medal will be posthumously awarded to 57 military, police, and civilian peacekeepers who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving under the UN’s leadership last year. This ongoing dedication underscores India’s commitment to global peace and security, often at a profound cost.