India’s Role in UN Peacekeeping: Protecting Human Rights in War Zones

United Nations Peacekeeping; India; Human Rights; Protection of Civilians; International Humanitarian Law

The maintenance of international peace and security remains one of the principal objectives of the United Nations (UN), with peacekeeping operations serving as one of its most visible and effective instruments for conflict management. Since its independence, India has consistently emerged as one of the most committed contributors to United Nations Peacekeeping Operations (UNPKOs), demonstrating an unwavering commitment to the principles of the UN Charter, multilateral cooperation, and the protection of vulnerable civilian populations. Indian peacekeepers have served in some of the world's most volatile conflict zones, including the Democratic Republic of Congo, South Sudan, Sierra Leone, Lebanon, Sudan, Rwanda, Somalia, and several other regions affected by armed conflict. Beyond the traditional mandate of monitoring ceasefires, India's peacekeeping efforts have increasingly focused on the protection of civilians, promotion of human rights, humanitarian assistance, gender inclusion, post-conflict reconstruction, and support for democratic governance. This article critically examines India's evolving role in UN peacekeeping through the lens of international human rights law and international humanitarian law. It analyses the historical development of India's participation, the legal framework governing peacekeeping missions, and the practical contributions made by Indian military and police contingents in protecting civilians from violence, facilitating humanitarian access, supporting displaced populations, and strengthening local institutions. The paper further evaluates India's leadership in promoting women peacekeepers, capacity-building initiatives, and accountability within UN missions while addressing operational challenges such as resource constraints, changing conflict dynamics, terrorism, and allegations occasionally associated with peacekeeping missions globally. Through selected case studies of Congo, South Sudan, Sierra Leone, and Lebanon, the study argues that India's contribution extends beyond troop deployment to encompass the advancement of human security and the protection of fundamental human rights. The paper concludes by recommending institutional reforms that can further enhance India's effectiveness and leadership in future multidimensional peacekeeping operations.