PM Modi lauds armed forces' role in UN Peace Keeping

Sharing his recent experience of celebrating Diwali with security forces in the forward areas of Jammu and Kashmir, the Prime Minister said in his monthly radio programme Mann-Ki-Baat that: "Memories of Diwali celebrations with security forces in Gurez sector of Jammu & Kashmir will stay long cherished in my heart".

"Many of us may not be aware that the jawans of our security forces play an important role not only on our borders but they play a very vital role in establishing peace the world over. As UN Peacekeepers, they are bringing glory to the nation in the comity of nations. United Nations Day was observed recently all over the world on the 24th of October," he said.

He said Indian armed forces' role in peacekeeping throughout the world is in effect in the spirit of "Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam" which means the whole world is "our family".

Mr Modi said more than 18,000 Indian security personnel have lent their services in UN Peacekeeping Operations. "Till August 2017,Indian soldiers had lent their services in about 50 of the total of 71 Peacekeeping operations undertaken by the UN the world over," he said.

"Indian security forces have not only saved people in various countries but also won their hearts with their people-friendly operations," he said and also pointed out that Indian women too have played a leading role in peace keeping efforts.

"Very few people may know that India was the first country which sent a female police unit to Liberia for the United Nations Peace Mission," he said.

Prime Minister further said, India's contribution is "not limited" to just peacekeeping operations but it is also providing training to peacekeepers from about 85 countries.

"The brave peacekeepers from this land of Mahatma Gandhi and Gautam Budha have sent a message of peace and amity around the world," he said.

The Prime Minister paid tributes to Indian Peacekeepers and said, "Who can forget the sacrifice of Captain Gurbachan Singh Salaria, who laid down his life while fighting in Congo in Africa?"

He was the only UN peacekeeper, a brave-heart, who was awarded the Param Veer Chakra, Mr Modi said even as he mentioned about Lt General Prem Chand, who had carved a special niche during operations in Cyprus.

India has always been giving a message of peace, unity and harmony to the world, Mr Modi said and added: "We believe that everyone must live in peace and harmony and move ahead to carve a better and peaceful tomorrow".