The International Day of UN Peacekeepers is being observed today. For the past two decades on this day, UN Peacekeepers, also known as the Blue Helmets, are remembered by the world for their role in promoting security, peace and stability. More than one million UN peacekeepers have taken part in 72 such operations since 1948. This year, the theme is People Peace Progress: The Power of Partnerships.
India has played a key role in UN Peacekeeping operations. It sent doctors and nurses to Congo in 1960 and then an all women team to Liberia in 2008.
UN Resident Coordinator in India, Shombi Sharp lauded India’s role and said its core democratic ideals and values are a testimony of its capacity.
Mr Sharp cited how the Indian contingent made an excellent contribution in South Sudan. An Indian lady officer was awarded one of the most prestigious medals for her exemplary courage.
The family of a fallen UN peacekeeper, Captain Abdelrazakh Hamit Bahar of Chad received the highest award in UN peacekeeping, the ‘Captain Mbaye Diagne Medal for Exceptional Courage’. Peacekeeping is a collective enterprise and one of many tools used by the United Nations to help secure global peace and security.
The full interview of the UN Resident can be heard on Parikrama Magazine programme at 1630 Hours and on World News at 2230 Hours today.
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