
Mon Jan 12 07:40:13 UTC 2026: ### Headline: Indian Army Officer Major Swathi Shantha Kumar Awarded UN Secretary-General’s Award for Gender-Inclusive Peacekeeping
The Story:
Major Swathi Shantha Kumar, an Indian Army officer from Bengaluru, has been recognized with the prestigious UN Secretary-General’s Award 2025 for her exemplary contributions to gender-inclusive peacekeeping while serving with the UN Mission in South Sudan. This award highlights the increasing importance placed on gender perspectives within international peacekeeping operations and acknowledges Major Kumar’s dedication to fostering inclusivity in conflict zones. The recognition underscores India’s commitment to UN peacekeeping efforts and its contribution to promoting gender equality in global security initiatives.
Key Points:
- Major Swathi Shantha Kumar, an Indian Army officer, received the UN Secretary-General’s Award 2025.
- The award recognizes her work in gender-inclusive peacekeeping.
- She is currently serving with the UN Mission in South Sudan.
- She is from Bengaluru, India.
Key Takeaways:
- The UN is actively promoting gender-inclusive peacekeeping operations.
- India is contributing significantly to UN peacekeeping efforts through personnel and expertise.
- Major Kumar’s award highlights the importance of incorporating gender perspectives in conflict resolution and peacebuilding.
- The award enhances India’s image as a responsible global actor committed to international security.