Rajnath Singh lauds global women peacekeepers at UN Military Officers Course in New Delhi
New Delhi, August 22. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday interacted with women military officers from 15 countries and India who are taking part in the United Nations Women Military Officers Course (UNWMOC-2025) in New Delhi. He praised their role in strengthening peacekeeping and reaffirmed India’s commitment to advancing gender parity in global security missions.
The nearly two-week programme, being held at the Manekshaw Centre from August 18 to 29, is organised by the Centre for United Nations Peacekeeping under the Ministry of Defence and Ministry of External Affairs. It seeks to build the professional capacity of women officers for effective participation in complex, multidimensional UN missions.
“As the largest contributor to UN peacekeeping, India has always supported women’s participation and integration in these missions,” Rajnath Singh said while addressing the officers at South Block. “We are strengthening policies to encourage women’s participation in our armed forces and peacekeeping contingents, ensuring equal opportunities to lead and serve. Through such initiatives, India will continue to work with the UN and troop-contributing countries to foster inclusive leadership and create a world where peace thrives through diversity and equality.”
Participants in UNWMOC-2025 include officers from Armenia, DR Congo, Egypt, Ivory Coast, Kenya, Kyrgyz Republic, Liberia, Malaysia, Morocco, Nepal, Sierra Leone, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, Uruguay and Vietnam, alongside 12 Indian officers and five interns.
Rajnath Singh described their presence as a “microcosm of the UN’s enduring spirit of unity and cooperation” and hailed them as “torchbearers of change” whose dedication strengthens both peacekeeping and global security.
Highlighting the UN’s focus on increasing women’s participation in peacekeeping, Singh said women officers bring “invaluable perspectives and approaches”, often fostering deeper trust with local communities, helping prevent sexual violence, and inspiring women and girls in conflict zones.
“India’s own peacekeeping journey reflects our belief in the power and potential of women officers,” he added.
On the occasion, the Defence Minister also unveiled Blue Helmet Odyssey: 75 Years of Indian Peacekeeping, a platinum jubilee edition of the UN Journal 2025, which documents India’s legacy, innovations, and future vision in UN operations. He likened the blue helmets of peacekeepers to the sky and the oceans, symbolising protection, security, and connection across borders.
The course curriculum covers International Humanitarian Law, protection of civilians, conflict-related sexual violence, child protection, conduct and discipline, and the challenges of displaced populations. Senior UN officials, Indian Army veterans, and international experts are delivering lectures, while a field demonstration by an Infantry Battalion nominated for UN duties will provide participants with practical insights.
