Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday interacted with women military officers from 15 countries and India, participating in the United Nations Women Military Officers Course (UNWMOC-2025), and described them as “torchbearers of change” in global peacekeeping.
The course, organised at the Manekshaw Centre from August 18-29 by the Centre for United Nations Peacekeeping in collaboration with the Ministry of Defence and Ministry of External Affairs, aims to enhance the professional capacity of women officers for effective participation in UN missions.
Addressing the participants, Singh said India, as the largest contributor to UN peacekeeping missions, has been a strong supporter of women’s participation in such efforts. “We are strengthening policies to encourage women’s participation in our Armed Forces and peacekeeping contingents, ensuring equal opportunities to lead and serve,” he said.
The minister underlined that women officers bring “invaluable perspectives and approaches to peace operations” and their presence often helps foster deeper trust with local communities, prevent sexual violence, and improve humanitarian outreach.
Highlighting the significance of the programme, Singh said the presence of women officers from Armenia, DR Congo, Egypt, Ivory Coast, Kenya, Kyrgyz Republic, Liberia, Malaysia, Morocco, Nepal, Sierra Leone, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, Uruguay and Vietnam, along with 12 Indian officers, represented “a microcosm of the UN’s enduring spirit of unity and cooperation.”
During the event, Singh also unveiled the UN Journal 2025 titled ‘Blue Helmet Odyssey: 75 Years of Indian Peacekeeping’, marking the Platinum Jubilee of India’s contribution to global peace efforts.
The course curriculum covers modern peacekeeping challenges including international humanitarian law, protection of civilians, refugees, conflict-related sexual violence, and child protection. A field demonstration by an infantry battalion earmarked for UN duties is also part of the programme.
Chief of Army Staff Gen Upendra Dwivedi and senior defence officials were present at the interaction.
