Did India Make It to the UN Honour Roll for Its Timely Payment?
Synopsis
On February 5, 2023, India secured its place on the UN Honour Roll by promptly paying its 2026 dues of $35.187 million. This action comes as the UN faces a financial crisis, urging member states for timely payments. India's consistent contributions highlight its commitment to international cooperation.
Key Takeaways
India paid $35.187 million of its 2026 dues to the UN.
It has consistently appeared on the UN Honour Roll .
The UN is facing a financial crisis due to delayed payments from major contributors.
India's contribution underscores its commitment to global cooperation.
The UN's regular budget for 2016 was $3.45 billion .
United Nations, Feb 5 (NationPress) India has officially entered the UN Honour Roll by swiftly settling its 2026 financial obligations of $35.187 million to the financially challenged organization, as confirmed by Spokesperson Stephane Dujarric.
On Tuesday (local time), India contributed its share of 1.016 percent of the total $3.45 billion regular budget for 2016, which is allocated for its operations excluding peacekeeping.
The UN is grappling with a financial crisis as its largest contributor, the US, has yet to fulfill its payment from the previous year. The organization has urged member states to remit their dues promptly to maintain its financial stability.
Secretary-General Antonio Guterres cautioned in a letter to member countries that the UN is facing an "imminent financial collapse." He indicated that the organization could exhaust its operational funds by July if the US does not clear its outstanding payments.
The Honour Roll recognizes nations that pay their dues within 30 days of receiving a payment notice. To date, 47 countries have made it onto the roll, with India consistently appearing on it.
During daily briefings, Dujarric typically announces contributions and challenges reporters to guess the country. On Wednesday, he provided this clue: "This country is home to The Statue of Unity, the tallest statue in the world, standing at 182 meters." After a reporter guessed correctly, Dujarric confirmed India's full payment.
Secretary-General Guterres has visited the statue, which commemorates Sardar Vallabhai Patel, a pivotal figure in India's integration after the British departure, which left a fragmented landscape of princely states.
India's overall contribution to the UN's regular budget totals $38.223 million, but $3.091 million of that is offset due to income tax withholdings on the salaries of Indian employees.
The UN maintains a separate budget for peacekeeping, which is due in July, with India contributing 0.2212 percent of the $5.38 billion budget.
(Arul Louis can be contacted at arul.l@ians.in)
Point of View
India's timely payment to the UN reflects its dedication to fulfilling international obligations. As a rising global power, it is crucial for India to maintain strong ties with international organizations like the UN, reinforcing its role in global governance and humanitarian efforts.
NationPress
10 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of India joining the UN Honour Roll?
India's inclusion in the UN Honour Roll highlights its commitment to timely financial contributions, which are essential for the UN's operational stability.
How much did India pay to the UN?
India paid $35.187 million, which is its share of the regular budget for 2016.
Why is the UN facing a financial crisis?
The UN is experiencing a financial crisis primarily due to the non-payment of dues by its largest contributor, the US.
How many countries are on the UN Honour Roll?
Currently, 47 countries have made it onto the UN Honour Roll for prompt payments.
What is the impact of India's payment on the UN?
India's payment aids in maintaining the UN's financial stability, which is crucial for its ongoing operations and initiatives.
