NEW DELHI: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh today interacted with women military officers from 15 countries and India participating in the United Nations Women Military Officers Course (UNWMOC-2025), being held at the Manekshaw Centre, New Delhi, from August 18–29.
The programme, organised by the Centre for United Nations Peacekeeping under the aegis of the Ministry of Defence and Ministry of External Affairs, aims to build the professional capacity of women officers for effective participation in multidimensional UN missions.
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Addressing the officers at South Block, Rajnath Singh reiterated India’s commitment to advancing gender parity in peacekeeping.
“As the largest contributor to UN peacekeeping missions, India has always supported women’s participation and integration. Through initiatives such as UNWMOC, we prepare women officers for complex peacekeeping environments,” he said.
The Defence Minister emphasised that India is strengthening policies to encourage women’s participation in the Armed Forces and UN contingents. “We will continue to work with the UN and troop-contributing countries to advance gender parity, foster inclusive leadership, and create a world where peace thrives through diversity and equality,” he added.
The course has drawn participants 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 women officers and five interns. Calling them “torchbearers of change,” Rajnath Singh lauded their role in strengthening global security and cooperation.
Highlighting the vital role of women peacekeepers, he said, “Women officers bring invaluable perspectives and approaches to peace operations. They foster deeper trust with local communities, particularly women and children, and help prevent sexual violence, improve humanitarian access, and promote gender equality. Their presence inspires local women and girls to see themselves as active participants in peace and security.”
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During the interaction, the Defence Minister also unveiled the UN Journal 2025 ‘Blue Helmet Odyssey: 75 Years of Indian Peacekeeping’ — a platinum jubilee edition capturing India’s legacy, innovations, and vision for the future in peacekeeping.
Reflecting on the symbolism of the UN’s blue helmets, he said they represent both protection and global connection, like the sky and oceans.
Chief of the Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi and other senior officials were present at the event.
The curriculum of UNWMOC-2025 covers International Humanitarian Law, Protection of Civilians, Conduct and Discipline, Conflict-Related Sexual Violence, Refugees and Internally Displaced People, and Child Protection in conflict. Sessions are being led by senior Indian Army veterans, UN experts, diplomats, and international practitioners.
The course also includes a field demonstration by an infantry battalion nominated for UN deployment, offering participants practical exposure to modern peacekeeping challenges.
