Indian Army Major Swathi Receives UN Peacekeeping Award for Work in South Sudan

Major Swathi Shantha Kumar, an Indian Army officer from Bengaluru, was honored with the United Nations Secretary-General's Award 2025 for her leadership in peacekeeping during her 18-month tenure with the all-women Military Engagement Team in South Sudan's UN Mission (UNMISS). Her team focused on building trust, creating safe spaces, and addressing issues like conflict-related sexual violence. Swathi, who chose the Army over a corporate job, emphasizes empowering women to foster sustainable peace in conflict zones.