India advocates for enhanced participation of women in the armed forces to strengthen protection for conflict-affected women and advance the UN's WPS agenda.
During a UN Security Council open debate on Women, Peace and Security (WPS), India's Permanent Representative, P. Harish, emphasized the need for greater female representation in the armed forces. This emphasis was based on a UN report that stated 750 million women and girls reside within 50 kilometres of conflict zones. Furthermore, verified cases of conflict-related sexual violence have reportedly more than doubled over the past year.
Harish pointed out the contributions of Indian Army Majors Mouiz Yaseen and Sonia Devendra Nevaskar who served with the UN Mission in South Sudan and implemented initiatives to enhance the safety, welfare, and participation of women peacekeepers and civilians.
India has taken steps to expand opportunities for women in the armed forces, such as offering permanent commissions and induction into all combat streams. Harish emphasized that women's involvement in peacekeeping and decision-making is crucial for establishing sustainable peace.
In addition, he mentioned the Women’s Reservation Act, 2023, which reserves one-third of seats for women in the Lok Sabha and state legislative assemblies, signifying a significant step towards increased gender representation in political leadership.
Source:
Akashvani News
