Major Abhilasha Barak Receives UN Gender Advocate Award

Major Abhilasha Barak Receives UN Gender Advocate Award

CNB WORLD TIMES

Major Abhilasha Barak of the Indian Army has been awarded the prestigious United Nations Military Gender Advocate of the Year Award 2025 for her outstanding contribution to peacekeeping efforts in Lebanon.

Major Barak is serving with the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) as an Engagement Team Commander and Gender Focal Point. She is also the first female combat helicopter pilot of the Indian Army.

As Commander of the Female Engagement Team, she worked closely with local communities, especially women and adolescent girls. She led several community outreach programmes and conducted gender sensitization training for peacekeepers deployed in the region.

The United Nations recognized her leadership and efforts in promoting gender equality and strengthening community engagement in conflict-affected areas. During her service, Major Barak emphasized that leadership, courage and the commitment to serve humanity have no gender barriers.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Major Barak on receiving the honour. He said the award recognizes her exemplary service as well as India's long-standing contribution to United Nations peacekeeping missions. He also noted that her achievement is an inspiration for young Indians, especially girls who aspire to serve the nation and humanity.

UN Secretary-General António Guterres praised Major Barak’s leadership and dedication to advancing the role of women in peacekeeping operations.

Major Barak is the third Indian woman peacekeeper to receive this prestigious award. Earlier recipients from India include Major Suman Gawani in 2019 and Major Radhika Sen in 2023.

India continues to play an important role in global peacekeeping efforts, with nearly 650 Indian personnel currently serving with UNIFIL in Lebanon, one of the United Nations’ most challenging and high-risk missions.