India’s Major Swati Shanta Kumar is making headlines worldwide after securing the UN Secretary General’s Award 2025 for her exceptional work in South Sudan. Through her visionary project ‘Equal Partners, Sustainable Peace,’ she empowered women in peacekeeping like never before.
Stationed with UNMISS as Engagement Platoon Commander, Major Swati spearheaded a historic 20-strong all-women platoon from India. In South Sudan’s unforgiving landscape—riddled with ethnic tensions, floods, and inaccessibility—they championed inclusive patrolling, integrating female peacekeepers into core operations.
Their efforts yielded tangible results: stronger community ties, smoother missions, and a model for future deployments. Navigating challenges like seasonal roadblocks required boat patrols, helicopter insertions, and relentless ground presence to engage remote groups.
Reflecting on the honor, Major Swati said, ‘This gender category award mirrors my team’s dedication, backed by battalion, Army HQ, and the Indian Army. As the first such Indian women’s unit in UNMISS, our success stemmed from constant Delhi guidance.’
The project stemmed from an initial insight: a minor rift between locals and UN personnel. Targeted activities and patrols mended it swiftly. ‘Our India-based training emphasized inclusion,’ she explained. ‘Field interactions reinforced our role as national ambassadors.’
This recognition cements Major Swati’s legacy and India’s commitment to UN missions. In an era demanding adaptive peacekeeping, her story proves that gender diversity drives sustainable outcomes, paving the way for more trailblazers.