Jaishankar pays tribute to UN Peacekeepers serving across world

External Affairs Minister Dr S. Jaishankar paid tribute to United Nations Peacekeepers serving across the world on the International Day of UN Peacekeepers on Friday, May, 29, 2026. In a social media post, Dr Jaishankar lauded the brave women and men serving under UN Peacekeeping missions for their steadfast commitment to preserving global peace and security. He said their dedication continues to make a meaningful difference in some of the world’s most challenging environments. The Minister also reiterated the message of Invest In Peace on the occasion.
India remains among the largest troop contributors to UN peacekeeping missions, with more than 5,000 Indian personnel currently deployed in nine of the 11 active UN missions worldwide, including in South Sudan, Lebanon and Congo. Nearly 180 Indian peacekeepers have lost their lives in UN operations over the decades, among the highest sacrifices made by any troop-contributing nation. Officials said India’s role in peacekeeping goes beyond troop deployment and includes training, humanitarian outreach, logistics support and capacity building for partner countries.
The Indian Army’s Centre for United Nations Peacekeeping (CUNPK) in New Delhi trains over 12,000 personnel annually and has emerged as a key institution for international peacekeeping cooperation. India has also played a pioneering role in promoting women’s participation in peacekeeping missions. In 2007, it became the first country to deploy an all-women Formed Police Unit to Liberia, a move widely seen as a milestone in UN peacekeeping history.More than 150 Indian women peacekeepers are currently serving across multiple UN missions, with their role increasingly recognised in community outreach, protection of vulnerable groups and conflict resolution.