Major Abhilasha Barak of the Indian Army has been selected for the prestigious United Nations Military Gender Advocate of the Year Award 2025 for her outstanding contribution to gender inclusion and community engagement during a United Nations peacekeeping mission in Lebanon.

Key Highlights

• Major Abhilasha Barak is currently serving with the Indian Battalion in the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL).
• She serves as the Commander of the Female Engagement Team (FET), which works closely with local women and communities in conflict-affected areas.
• She has been recognised for:
  • Promoting meaningful engagement with women and adolescent girls.
  • Conducting gender-sensitisation training for peacekeepers.
  • Strengthening trust between local communities and United Nations peacekeeping forces.
• She will receive the award at the United Nations Headquarters, New York, during the observance of the International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers (29 May).

About the Award

• The United Nations Military Gender Advocate of the Year Award was instituted in 2016 by the Office of Military Affairs under the Department of Peace Operations.
• The award recognises military peacekeepers who effectively advance the principles of United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325 on Women, Peace and Security.
• It highlights the importance of integrating a gender perspective into peacekeeping operations.

Why is this Achievement Significant?

• Major Abhilasha Barak is the third Indian peacekeeper to receive this honour after Major Suman Gawani (2019) and Major Radhika Sen (2023).
• She is also known as the first woman combat helicopter pilot of the Indian Army.
• The award reflects India’s growing contribution to United Nations peacekeeping missions and women’s leadership in security and defence.

About UNIFIL

• The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) was established in 1978.
• It operates under the authority of the United Nations Security Council.
• Its objectives include maintaining peace along the Lebanon-Israel border and supporting humanitarian and security efforts.

Exam Hook (Prelims)

Q. The United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325 is associated with:

(a) Climate Change and Sustainable Development
(b) Women, Peace and Security
(c) Nuclear Disarmament
(d) Refugee Protection

Answer: (b) Women, Peace and Security

One-Line Wrap

Major Abhilasha Barak’s recognition by the United Nations highlights India’s leadership in peacekeeping and the growing role of women in global peace and security efforts.

Source:

Major Abhilasha Barak to receive 2025 UN military gender advocate award – The Hindu