New Delhi: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has made a strong pitch for enhanced collaboration and comprehensive reforms in United Nations peacekeeping operations during the prestigious UN Troop Contributing Countries’ (UNTCC) Chiefs’ Conclave being held in the national capital.
The three-day international conclave, running from October 14 to 16, has brought together senior military leadership from 32 nations that play pivotal roles in UN peacekeeping missions worldwide.
UNTCC Conclave 2025: India Champions Rules-Based International Order
Speaking at the inaugural session, Rajnath Singh emphasized that India stands firm in upholding the international rules-based order, even as some nations “openly violate and undermine” global norms.
“Peacekeeping, for India, has never been an act of choice, but an article of faith,” the Defence Minister declared, reinforcing the country’s unwavering commitment to global peace initiatives.
He warned that without comprehensive reforms, the United Nations faces a “crisis of confidence” that could undermine its peacekeeping effectiveness.
UNTCC Conclave 2025: Call for Inclusive Decision-Making
The Defence Minister stressed that those serving in dangerous field conditions must have a meaningful voice in shaping peacekeeping policies.
“Those who serve in the field and bear the risks must have a meaningful voice in shaping the policies that guide their mission,” Singh stated, highlighting the need for greater inclusivity in UN decision-making processes.
He emphasized that peacekeeping is a collaborative effort requiring unity of purpose among troop-contributing countries, the UN Secretariat, and all stakeholders.
India’s Impressive Peacekeeping Legacy
Rajnath Singh highlighted India’s remarkable contribution to global peace efforts, revealing that nearly 2,90,000 Indian personnel have served in more than 50 UN peacekeeping missions over several decades.
“From Congo and Korea to South Sudan and Lebanon, our soldiers, police, and medical professionals have stood shoulder to shoulder with the international community,” the Defence Minister noted with pride.
Currently, India deploys over 6,000 uniformed personnel in UN missions across the globe, making it one of the largest contributors to international peacekeeping efforts.
The nation has paid a heavy price for peace, with 179 Indian peacekeepers making the supreme sacrifice while serving under the UN flag.
High-Profile Participation at Conclave
The UNTCC Conclave 2025 Chiefs’ Conclave features addresses from India’s top leadership and international dignitaries.
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Jean-Pierre Lacroix, UN Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations, are among the key speakers at this significant gathering.
Delegations from 32 troop-contributing nations arrived in New Delhi on October 13 to participate in discussions addressing critical peacekeeping challenges.
UNTCC Conclave 2025: Key Focus Areas of Discussion
The conclave serves as a vital forum to address:
- Operational challenges in contemporary peacekeeping missions
- Evolving security threats in conflict zones
- Enhanced interoperability among participating nations
- Inclusivity in decision-making processes
- Role of technology in modern peacekeeping
- Training and capacity building initiatives
UNTCC Conclave 2025: Strategic Significance for India
Hosting this prestigious international gathering underscores India’s leadership role in global peacekeeping architecture and its commitment to strengthening multilateral cooperation.
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The Indian Army’s initiative to organize this conclave reflects the nation’s proactive approach to addressing contemporary security challenges and fostering international collaboration.
As the world grapples with complex conflicts and emerging threats, this conclave provides a crucial platform for military leaders to exchange experiences, best practices, and innovative solutions for effective peacekeeping operations.
