Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
United Nations Peacekeeping Operations (UNPKOs) represent a cornerstone of the UN’s efforts to maintain international peace and security. India has been a long-standing and significant contributor to these operations since their inception in 1948, initially with the UN Emergency Force (UNEF) in the Middle East. Historically, India’s participation was largely focused on providing troops. However, recent trends indicate a shift towards more specialized roles, increased financial contributions, and a greater emphasis on political and diplomatic engagement within the UNPKOs framework. This answer will analyze these evolving trends, examining the factors driving them and their implications for India’s foreign policy.
Historical Phases of India’s Involvement
India’s involvement in UNPKOs can be broadly categorized into three phases:
- First Phase (1948-1960s): Characterized by large-scale troop contributions to missions in Korea, the Middle East, and Congo. India’s primary motivation was upholding the principles of the UN Charter and demonstrating its commitment to international peace.
- Second Phase (1970s-1990s): A period of relative decline in participation due to regional conflicts and domestic priorities. However, India continued to contribute troops to missions in Lebanon and Somalia.
- Third Phase (2000s-Present): A resurgence in India’s engagement, marked by increased troop contributions, financial support, and a more proactive role in shaping the UNPKOs agenda.
Recent Trends in India’s Role
1. Increased Troop Contributions
India is currently among the top troop-contributing countries to UNPKOs. As of November 2023 (knowledge cutoff), India has contributed over 60,000 personnel to over 49 UN peacekeeping missions. Recent deployments include significant contributions to missions in South Sudan (UNMISS), Lebanon (UNIFIL), and the Democratic Republic of Congo (MONUSCO). The deployment of an all-women Formed Police Unit (FPU) to Liberia in 2007 was a landmark achievement.
2. Specialized Roles and Capabilities
Beyond traditional infantry roles, India is increasingly offering specialized capabilities to UNPKOs. These include:
- Engineering Units: Constructing infrastructure, clearing mines, and providing logistical support.
- Medical Units: Providing healthcare services to peacekeepers and local populations.
- Force Protection Units: Enhancing the security of UN personnel and facilities.
- Veterinary Hospitals: Providing animal healthcare support, particularly in African missions.
3. Financial Contributions
India has consistently increased its financial contributions to the UNPKOs budget. In 2023, India pledged an additional $150,000 to the UN Peacekeeping Trust Fund, demonstrating its financial commitment. India also advocates for equitable burden-sharing among member states.
4. Political and Diplomatic Engagement
India is actively involved in the political and diplomatic aspects of UNPKOs. This includes:
- Supporting the Secretary-General’s Special Representatives: Providing political guidance and support to the UN’s top officials in conflict zones.
- Participating in Security Council Discussions: Advocating for effective peacekeeping mandates and strategies.
- Promoting the ‘Compact’ between the UN, Host Countries and Troop Contributing Countries (TCCs): Strengthening accountability and cooperation in peacekeeping operations.
Drivers of these Trends
- India’s Rising Global Profile: As a major economic and political power, India seeks to play a more prominent role in global affairs, including peacekeeping.
- Strategic Interests: India has strategic interests in maintaining stability in regions affected by conflict, particularly in its neighborhood and Africa.
- Commitment to Multilateralism: India is a strong supporter of the UN and its peacekeeping efforts.
- Capacity Building: India’s growing military and technological capabilities enable it to contribute more effectively to UNPKOs.
Challenges and Future Prospects
Despite its significant contributions, India faces several challenges in UNPKOs:
- Financial Constraints: The high cost of deploying and maintaining troops can strain India’s resources.
- Risk to Peacekeepers: Peacekeepers face significant risks in volatile conflict zones.
- Bureaucratic Hurdles: Delays in reimbursement and logistical support can hamper peacekeeping operations.
Looking ahead, India is likely to continue to play a leading role in UNPKOs. Key areas of focus will include:
- Advocating for reforms to the UNPKOs system: Improving efficiency, accountability, and effectiveness.
- Investing in training and capacity building: Preparing peacekeepers for the challenges of modern conflict.
- Strengthening partnerships with other TCCs: Enhancing coordination and cooperation.
Conclusion
India’s role in UN peacekeeping operations has evolved significantly over the decades, transitioning from a primarily troop-contributing nation to a more comprehensive partner offering specialized capabilities, financial support, and political engagement. Driven by its rising global stature, strategic interests, and commitment to multilateralism, India is poised to remain a key player in maintaining international peace and security through UNPKOs. Addressing existing challenges and advocating for necessary reforms will be crucial to maximizing the effectiveness of these operations in the future.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.