The Conclave of Chiefs of United Nations Troop Contributing Countries (UNTCC) began in New Delhi today. The Indian Army is hosting the three-day high-level forum to deliberate on operational challenges, evolving threats, share best practices and build shared understanding on future peacekeeping.
Addressing the conclave, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said, India is advocating for the reformation of outdated international structures as some nations are openly violating the international rules, while some want to dominate. He highlighted that the country stands strong in upholding the international rules-based order. The Minister said, India recognises that the success of peacekeeping depends not only on numbers but on preparedness.
For the sustainability of Peacekeeping Operations, Mr Singh urged all member states to enhance their support with troops, logistics, technologies or specialised capacities. He said, innovations such as secure communications, surveillance systems and unmanned platforms can make missions safer and more effective.
The Minister highlighted that under Atmanirbhar Bharat, the country has developed cost-effective indigenous technologies that strengthen peacekeeping missions. Mr Singh said, one of the most inspiring transformations in peacekeeping has been the growing participation of women. He said, their presence enhances the mission’s effectiveness, builds trust with local populations and brings empathy into operations.
Mr Singh said, India has stood firm with the United Nations in its mission to maintain international peace and security. He said Indian soldiers, police and medical professionals have stood shoulder to shoulder with the international community to protect the vulnerable and rebuild societies during UN peacekeeping missions.
The Minister said, more than 180 Indian peacekeepers have laid down their lives under the UN flag. Their courage and selflessness are inscribed in the collective conscience of humankind.
Speaking on the occasion, Chief of Army Staff, General Upendra Dwivedi stressed on the need to integrate advanced technologies into operations, enhance rapid deployment capabilities and foster interoperability among contributing nations. He said, collaborative training and innovative resource management will be essential to sustain global peacekeeping missions in the long run.
General Dwivedi highlighted that India has sent approximately three lakh men and women across 51 missions out of the total 71 peacekeeping missions of the United Nations so far. He said, hosting this conference in India is not only a privilege but also a reaffirmation of shared determination to strengthen cooperation and carry forward the noble mission of global peace.
Chiefs and representatives from 32 countries that contribute troops to UN peacekeeping missions are participating in the Conclave. The conclave is witnessing participation from countries including Bhutan, Burundi, Ethiopia, Fiji, France, Ghana, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Mongolia, Poland, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, Uganda, Uruguay and Vietnam. Senior military officials from Bangladesh, Brazil, Italy, Nepal, Kenya, Australia, Malaysia, Thailand and Madagascar are representing their respective militaries at senior levels.
