Indian Peacekeepers were honoured with United Nations Medals in Juba, South Sudan, on August 17, 2026, recognising their service with the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS). A total of 210 Indian peacekeepers received the medals, including six women and seven staff officers. The ceremony highlighted India’s continued contribution to international peacekeeping and its role in supporting peace and stability in conflict-affected regions.

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Indian Peacekeepers Honoured in Juba

The medal ceremony was held in Juba, the capital of South Sudan. The UN Medal is given to personnel who complete qualifying service with United Nations peacekeeping missions.

Among the 210 Indian recipients were women personnel and staff officers serving in different responsibilities. Their work forms part of the wider UN effort to protect civilians, support humanitarian activities and assist peace-building processes in South Sudan.

The recognition also highlights the important role played by military and police personnel who work in challenging environments far from their home countries.

India’s Long Role in UN Peacekeeping

India has been one of the major contributors to United Nations peacekeeping operations for many decades. Indian military and police personnel have served in several regions affected by conflict and political instability.

According to the information released for 2026, more than 4,200 Indian military and police personnel, including 155 women, were deployed in UN peacekeeping operations around the world.

India’s contribution has included troops, military observers, police personnel, medical teams, engineers and other specialists. These personnel support different aspects of UN missions depending on the requirements of each operation.

The participation of women has also become an important part of India’s peacekeeping contribution. Women personnel serve in roles connected with security, community engagement, medical support and other mission activities.

UNMISS and Its Work in South Sudan

The United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) was established in 2011, following the independence of South Sudan.

UNMISS works in a complex environment where the protection of civilians and support for peace remain major priorities. Its responsibilities include helping protect vulnerable communities, supporting humanitarian assistance and assisting efforts aimed at maintaining peace.

Indian personnel serving with UNMISS operate as part of the wider multinational mission. Their duties can involve maintaining security, supporting local communities, protecting civilians and helping create conditions for humanitarian operations.

The work can be particularly difficult because peacekeepers often operate in areas affected by violence, displacement, limited infrastructure and humanitarian challenges.

UN Peacekeeping Began in 1948

The United Nations began its peacekeeping activities in 1948, when military observers were deployed to the Middle East.

Since then, UN peacekeeping has developed into a major international system involving military, police and civilian personnel from countries around the world.

UN peacekeeping missions are established through decisions of the United Nations Security Council and operate under specific mandates. Their responsibilities vary depending on the situation in each country.

Modern peacekeeping missions can involve civilian protection, monitoring ceasefires, supporting political processes, protecting humanitarian operations and helping countries strengthen peace and stability.

India Has Contributed Over 200,000 Personnel

India’s contribution to UN peacekeeping extends across several decades. The country has provided more than 200,000 personnel to 49 of the 71 UN peacekeeping missions created since 1948.

This long record has made India one of the most recognised contributors to UN peacekeeping.

Indian personnel have served in missions across Africa, Asia, the Middle East and other regions. Their responsibilities have ranged from security and patrol duties to medical assistance, engineering and community support.

However, peacekeeping can involve serious risks. More than 160 Indian peacekeepers have lost their lives while serving under the UN flag, reflecting the difficult conditions faced by personnel deployed in conflict zones.

Women Continue to Increase Their Role

The participation of six women among the 210 recipients in the Juba ceremony is another notable feature of the event.

Women peacekeepers can play an important role in building communication with local communities, particularly women and children who may find it difficult to approach male personnel.

India has gradually increased the participation of women in international peacekeeping operations. Their involvement supports the UN’s wider emphasis on women’s participation in peace and security activities.

UN Medal Ceremony Also Held for UNISFA

The recognition of Indian personnel in South Sudan follows another UN Medal ceremony involving Indian peacekeepers.

On August 15, 2026, Indian personnel serving with the United Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei (UNISFA) also received UN medals.

UNISFA operates in the Abyei Area, a disputed region located between Sudan and South Sudan. The mission was established to support security and stability in the area and address risks linked to the dispute.

The two medal ceremonies within a short period highlight the continued presence of Indian personnel in UN missions across the region.

India’s Contribution to Global Peace Efforts

India’s participation in UN peacekeeping is part of its wider engagement with the international community. Indian personnel work alongside peacekeepers from many other countries, following UN rules and the mandate given to each mission.

Their service often involves working in difficult conditions while maintaining communication with local communities and supporting international humanitarian and peace-building efforts.

The latest ceremony in Juba therefore recognises not only the 210 personnel receiving medals but also the broader contribution of Indian peacekeepers to United Nations operations.