Indian Army Officer Wins UN Award for Gender-Inclusive Peacekeeping

An Indian Army officer serving with a United Nations mission in Africa has received global recognition for advancing gender-inclusive peacekeeping. Major Swathi Shantha Kumar has been awarded the UN Secretary-General’s Award 2025 for her leadership and field-level impact in promoting gender parity and community engagement in conflict-affected regions.

UN recognition for peacekeeping excellence

The award was announced by United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres as part of the Secretary-General’s Awards–2025. Major Swathi’s initiative, titled “Equal Partners, Lasting Peace,” was recognised for strengthening gender-responsive peacekeeping practices in line with UN mandates. Her project was selected from nominations received across all UN peacekeeping missions and UN agencies worldwide.

Role within UN Mission in South Sudan

Major Swathi, an officer of the Indian Army from Bengaluru, is currently deployed with the United Nations Mission in South Sudan. Through her leadership, she played a pivotal role in deploying and integrating the Indian Engagement Team, improving gender parity and strengthening grassroots-level outreach across the mission’s area of responsibility.

Operational impact and community outreach

Under her command, the team conducted sustained operations including long- and short-range patrols, integrated riverine patrols, and air patrols to remote counties. These efforts helped create a safer and more supportive environment for over 5,000 women, enabling greater participation in community activities and local decision-making. The initiative significantly improved trust and confidence between peacekeepers and local populations in conflict-affected regions of South Sudan.

Imporatnt Facts for Exams

• UNMISS is a UN peacekeeping mission established to support peace in South Sudan.
• The UN Secretary-General’s Awards recognise excellence across UN operations.
• Gender-inclusive peacekeeping focuses on women’s participation and protection.
• India is among the largest troop-contributing countries to UN peacekeeping missions.

Model for future peacekeeping missions

The United Nations noted that the consistent commitment shown by Major Swathi and her team sets a benchmark for future peacekeeping deployments. Her work demonstrates how gender-inclusive leadership can enhance operational effectiveness, improve community relations, and contribute to long-term peace and stability in fragile regions.