Will Two Indian Soldiers Be Honoured Posthumously at the UN?
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Synopsis
Two brave Indian soldiers, Brigadier Amitabh Jha and Havildar Sanjay Singh, are set to be honoured posthumously by the UN for their dedication to global peace. Discover how their sacrifices are recognized on a global stage and the significance of the Dag Hammarskjold Medal.
Key Takeaways
- Brigadier Amitabh Jha and Havildar Sanjay Singh to receive posthumous recognition.
- The Dag Hammarskjold Medal honors sacrifices in peacekeeping.
- India has contributed significantly to UN peacekeeping efforts.
- Commemoration held on the International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers.
- 4,300 peacekeepers have lost their lives since 1948.
New Delhi, 29 May (NationPress) Brigadier Amitabh Jha and Havildar Sanjay Singh are set to receive the esteemed Dag Hammarskjold Medal from the UN in New York, acknowledging their ultimate sacrifice in the pursuit of global peace, as stated by a defence official on Thursday.
The official revealed that Brigadier Jha was part of the United Nations Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF).
“Brigadier Jha was responsible for managing the sensitive ceasefire protocols in the Golan Heights, while Havildar Singh was engaged with the United Nations Stabilisation Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (MONUSCO),” the official said.
The defence official emphasized that Havildar Singh contributed to stabilizing regions affected by conflict in Africa.
The medals will be bestowed upon these fallen heroes on May 29, coinciding with the International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers at the UN Headquarters in New York.
Since 1948, approximately 4,300 peacekeepers have lost their lives while serving under the UN banner.
The Dag Hammarskjold Medal was established by UN Security Council Resolution 1121 in 1997 and is named in honour of the second UN Secretary-General, Dag Hammarskjold, who tragically perished in a plane crash during a peace mission in 1961.
This prestigious award is given annually to military, police, and civilian personnel who make the ultimate sacrifice while serving in UN peacekeeping efforts.
According to the defence official, India, being one of the largest contributors to UN peacekeeping missions, has dispatched over 200,000 personnel across 49 missions over the years, with numerous Indian peacekeepers having received this medal in previous years.
Simultaneously, on Thursday, the Indian Army observed the 77th United Nations Peacekeepers Day, marked by a solemn wreath-laying ceremony at the National War Memorial.
Lieutenant General Rakesh Kapoor, Deputy Chief of Army Staff (Information Systems and Coordination), paid tribute to the brave Indian soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving in UN peacekeeping missions worldwide.
Senior military officials and personnel from UN contingents participated in the ceremony, highlighting India’s unwavering commitment to global peace and security.
Point of View
It is vital to recognize the sacrifices made by Indian peacekeepers in the pursuit of global stability. The awarding of the Dag Hammarskjold Medal to Brigadier Jha and Havildar Singh reflects India's commitment to international peacekeeping efforts and underscores the profound impact of their service.
NationPress
20/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Dag Hammarskjold Medal?
The Dag Hammarskjold Medal is an award presented by the United Nations to military, police, and civilian personnel who have lost their lives while serving in UN peacekeeping operations. It was established in 1997.
Why are Brigadier Jha and Havildar Singh being awarded?
Both soldiers are being posthumously awarded the Dag Hammarskjold Medal for their ultimate sacrifice in the service of global peace during their missions with UN peacekeeping forces.
When will the awards be presented?
The medals will be presented on May 29, coinciding with the International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers at the UN Headquarters in New York.
How many peacekeepers have lost their lives since 1948?
Since 1948, around 4,300 peacekeepers have lost their lives while serving under the UN flag.
What role did Brigadier Jha and Havildar Singh play in their missions?
Brigadier Jha managed ceasefire arrangements in the Golan Heights, while Havildar Singh worked to stabilize conflict-affected areas in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
