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India's UN Peacekeeping Role: Army Chief & Envoy Discuss Strategy Amid Global Conflicts

Indian Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi met with Ambassador P Harish, India's Permanent Representative to the UN, to discuss the evolving role of Indian peacekeepers in UN missions. They addressed emerging geostrategic dynamics in South Asia and the need for integrated military-diplomatic approaches to global security. General Dwivedi highlighted unprecedented challenges, including over 56 active conflicts, disruptive technologies, and hybrid warfare straining UN consensus. India, having deployed about 300,000 personnel across 51 missions, emphasizes the peacekeeper's multifaceted role as a security provider, diplomat, and nation-builder in conflict zones.

Key Points: India's UN Peacekeeping Role & Strategy Discussed by Army Chief

  • India's UN peacekeeping legacy
  • Geostrategic dynamics in South Asia
  • Challenges of hybrid warfare & disinformation
  • Integrated military-diplomatic approach
2 min read

Army chief Gen Upendra Dwivedi, Ambassador P Harish discuss Indian's role in UN peacekeeping operations

Army Chief Gen Upendra Dwivedi & Ambassador P Harish discuss India's UN peacekeeping role, challenges from 56 global conflicts, and integrated diplomacy.

"Peacekeeping today faces challenges of unprecedented scale and complexity. — Gen Upendra Dwivedi"

New Delhi, December 25

Chief of the Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi discussed the Indian Army's role in United Nations peacekeeping operations with Ambassador P Harish, India's Permanent Representative to the United Nations in New York.

General Upendra Dwivedi and Ambassador P Harish, on Wednesday, also discussed geostrategic dynamics in South Asia and the military and diplomatic application for peacekeeping.

"General Upendra Dwivedi, COAS, today interacted with Ambassador P Harish, Permanent Representative of India to the United Nations in New York. The interaction focused on the Indian Army's evolving role in United Nations peacekeeping operations, emerging geostrategic dynamics in South Asia and the integrated application of military and diplomacy to advance peace, stability and security," ADG PI-Indian Army wrote on X.

Earlier in October, General Upendra Dwivedi addressed the United Nations Troop Contributing Countries' (UNTCC) Chiefs Conclave in New Delhi, highlighting the challenges faced by global peacekeeping missions amid over 56 active conflicts involving 19 nations.

Flagging the concern over the global order, General Dwivedi noted that shifting power dynamics are harming the consensus in the United Nations, leading to a lack of cohesive action.

General Dwivedi said, "Peacekeeping today faces challenges of unprecedented scale and complexity. The global order is almost an inflexion point marked by over 56 active conflicts and the involvement of nearly 19 nations."

He emphasised the disruptive technologies and the growing influence of non-state actors amid hybrid warfare, and called for a unified response from UN peacekeepers.

"The infusion of disruptive technologies, the growing influence of non-state actors, hybrid warfare and the scourge of disinformation have blurred the traditional boundaries of conflict. Shifting geopolitical currents strain the spirit of consensus that underpins cohesive United Nations action. Such realities demand more resilient, swift and unified responses that only peacekeepers working together can deliver," he said.

"A peacekeeper, apart from being a security provider, is a diplomat, a technology enthusiast, a nation builder in far-flung areas and also may be the only media for the flow of information in conflict zones. The blue helmet or casque blue can, in fact, be called the glue that binds a mission and facilitates the functioning of the other organs of the United Nations, as well as the NGOs," he added.

Highlighting India's role in global peacekeeping, General Dwivedi said that the nation has deployed about 3,00,000 personnel across 51 peacekeeping missions.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
The point about disruptive technologies and hybrid warfare is so crucial. Peacekeeping isn't just about boots on the ground anymore. India's experience in diverse conflict zones gives it a unique perspective to lead this discussion at the UN.
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Priya S
While our contributions are commendable, I hope such high-level talks also focus on the welfare and safety of our jawans on the ground. They face immense risks, and we must ensure they have the best equipment and support. The nation stands with them.
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Rohit P
"A peacekeeper is a diplomat, a technology enthusiast, a nation builder..." This line says it all. Our forces do so much more than just security. This is why India's voice needs to be stronger in shaping UN peacekeeping policies. We have the practical experience.
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Michael C
The General is right about the "lack of cohesive action" at the UN. With so many active conflicts, the world needs a more effective system. India, with its neutral and professional approach, can be a bridge-builder. Good to see military and diplomatic heads aligning strategy.
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Kavya N
Respectfully, I hope our focus on global peacekeeping doesn't come at the cost of our own security needs, especially given the geostrategic dynamics in South Asia mentioned. We must maintain a strong balance. Our primary duty is to our own borders and citizens.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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