The Indian Army has long been an active participant in international peacekeeping operations, contributing significantly to global efforts aimed at maintaining peace and stability in conflict zones. India’s commitment to peacekeeping is rooted in its foreign policy of non-alignment, its historical legacy of supporting global peace, and its dedication to humanitarian values. Over the years, the Indian Army has earned a reputation for professionalism, discipline, and effectiveness in managing complex peacekeeping missions across the world. India's involvement in peacekeeping dates back to the 1950s, shortly after the formation of the United Nations (UN) Peacekeeping Force. In the aftermath of World War II, the UN sought to deploy multinational forces to help restore peace in conflict-ridden regions. India, a newly independent nation with a strong commitment to international peace, quickly stepped up to support the global community in maintaining stability in volatile regions. The Indian Army’s first peacekeeping mission took place in 1950 in the Kashmir region, under the auspices of the United Nations. Since then, India has been a regular contributor to UN peacekeeping missions, sending troops to several regions across Africa, Asia, and the Middle East. India has participated in more than 50 peacekeeping operations, becoming one of the largest and most reliable contributors to UN-led missions worldwide.
Key contributions and missions the Indian Army has been involved in a variety of peacekeeping operations, ranging from traditional military interventions to complex multidimensional operations that require civilian, police, and military cooperation. Some of the most significant missions include
United Nations Emergency Force- 1956 (Suez Crisis) One of the Indian Army's early engagements in peacekeeping was during the Suez Crisis in 1956. The UN deployed the UNEF to supervise the ceasefire and prevent further escalation of the conflict. India’s role in the operation marked the country’s first contribution to UN peacekeeping, with Indian troops helping to separate warring forces and stabilize the region. United Nations Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus– 1964–present India has had a long-standing presence in Cyprus, where the Indian Army is involved in maintaining peace between the Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot communities. Indian troops continue to serve in UNFICYP, demonstrating India's commitment to keeping the peace in a region that has experienced ethnic conflict for decades. United Nations Operations in the Congo– 1960–1964 India played a central role in the UN’s peacekeeping efforts during the Congolese crisis. Indian forces were tasked with disarming rebel groups and helping to stabilize the country as it gained independence from Belgium. Indian soldiers faced significant challenges but ultimately succeeded in restoring a semblance of order in the war-torn nation.
United Nations Assistance Mission in Rwanda– 1993–1996 Although the Indian Army's mission in Rwanda was marred by the tragic failure of the international community to prevent the 1994 genocide, India’s contribution in the subsequent peacekeeping effort was noteworthy. Indian troops were part of the UNAMIR mission, where they helped restore order, provide humanitarian assistance, and assist in the rebuilding process after the genocide.
United Nations multidimensional integrated stabilization mission in Mali– 2013–present India is one of the largest contributors to the UN mission in Mali, where the Indian Army helps to stabilize the country in the wake of an insurgency by various extremist groups. Indian peacekeepers work on a variety of tasks, including monitoring ceasefires, protecting civilians, and supporting local authorities in their efforts to re-establish governance and public services.
United Nations Mission in South Sudan– 2011–present: India’s involvement in South Sudan, one of the world’s youngest nations, highlights its role in the UN’s peacebuilding efforts. Indian Army troops provide security, assist in the delivery of humanitarian aid, and work towards the stabilization of the region that is grappling with civil war and inter-ethnic violence. The Indian Army’s approach to Peacekeeping the Indian Army’s approach to peacekeeping is grounded in several core principles that distinguish its contributions
Neutrality and Impartiality the Indian Army has always adhered to the principle of impartiality, which is a cornerstone of any peacekeeping operation. Indian peacekeepers are known for their neutrality in conflict zones, ensuring that they treat all parties with fairness, regardless of political or ethnic affiliations. This impartiality helps build trust among local communities and opposing factions.
Humanitarian assistance beyond maintaining law and order, the Indian Army plays a vital role in delivering humanitarian aid in conflict zones. Indian peacekeepers are often involved in providing medical care, constructing infrastructure, and assisting displaced persons. Their dedication to alleviating human suffering has earned them widespread respect in the countries where they serve.
Cultural Sensitivity Indian soldiers are trained to be culturally sensitive, which is essential in multi-ethnic and multi-religious regions. The Indian Army’s commitment to understanding local customs and traditions ensures that their peacekeeping efforts are more effective and less likely to provoke hostility from local populations.
Comprehensive training Indian peacekeepers undergo rigorous training, including preparation for complex and dangerous environments, language skills, and knowledge of international law. This comprehensive training makes Indian troops capable of handling a wide range of tasks in peacekeeping missions, from combat to humanitarian aid and development.
Challenges faced by the Indian Army in Peacekeeping While the Indian Army’s contributions to peacekeeping are widely acknowledged, peacekeeping operations come with significant challenges. Some of the major hurdles faced by the Indian Army include hostile environments many peacekeeping missions take place in areas plagued by instability, armed conflicts, and extremism. Indian peacekeepers are often deployed in areas where they face hostility from armed groups, making their task of maintaining peace incredibly difficult and dangerous.
Limited Resources the UN’s peacekeeping budget is often stretched thin, and Indian peacekeepers, like those from other contributing nations, sometimes work with limited resources. Lack of equipment, funding, and logistics can hinder the effectiveness of peacekeeping operations. Political Constraints The success of peacekeeping missions often depends on the cooperation of all parties involved in the conflict. However, political resistance from local governments, warring factions, or external actors can hamper the Indian Army’s efforts to bring lasting peace to conflict zones.
The Indian Army’s role in peacekeeping missions is a testament to India’s commitment to global peace and security. Over the decades, Indian peacekeepers have demonstrated exemplary professionalism, compassion, and dedication in the service of peace. Their contributions to UN-led peacekeeping missions across the world have not only helped stabilize war-torn regions but have also reinforced India's position as a responsible member of the international community.
As the global security landscape continues to evolve, the Indian Army’s expertise in peacekeeping will remain crucial in addressing complex challenges. India’s ongoing participation in peacekeeping missions underscores its commitment to upholding the values of peace, democracy, and human rights on the world stage. In a world where conflicts continue to disrupt millions of lives, the Indian Army’s role in peacekeeping remains as vital as ever.