 For the United Nations, it's been a road well traversed, a 60-year journey negotiating the harsh terrain of global politics, creating milestones out of its success stories. In these years, the United Nations has successfully overcome challenges and achieved its objectives with the participation and contribution of member states, with international peacekeeping being one of the most daunting tasks. Towards this endeavor of the United Nations, its member states, including India, have contributed soldiers for various peacekeeping missions around the globe. With their commitment towards duty, discipline and professionalism, Indian peacekeepers have been inspired to make sacrifices of the highest order, upholding the glorious traditions of the Indian Army. As one of the top contributors to UN's peacekeeping efforts, 70,000 Indian military and police personnel have served under the blue flag, in 41 out of 57 peacekeeping operations across the globe. Such large troop deployment truly reflects India's capability and commitment in terms of professional soldiering. Only the best officers and soldiers with attributes like calm, reserve and determination will do for peacekeeping missions. So, the selection process is a tough one. Neutrality, fairness and respect for human rights must be clearly understood and adhered to. Would-be peacekeepers are also reminded that they are not going out to wage war, but to prevent infighting between belligerent groups. They are made to understand that the objective is to attain peace, not by force or armed conflict, but through calm and diplomatic reassurance. Peacekeeping had not originally been envisaged as a role of the United Nations, and so was not included in the UN Charter. Rather, it emerged as a pragmatic response to emerging global situations. Traditionally, peacekeeping operations have involved the deployment of military personnel from a number of countries under UN command. Over time, UN peacekeeping evolved to meet the unique demands of sharply different conflicts in an ever-changing political landscape. Indian troops have taken part in some of the most difficult operations in hostile territory, yet managed to win universal acclaim with their professional excellence and significant contributions towards world peace and stability. In all these conflicts, Indian soldiers have played and have made, have distinguished themselves through discipline, training and professionalism, and it is my hope that you can help set a new standard for UN peacekeeping. It's a painful admission that in terms of numbers, India leads the list of countries whose soldiers have made the supreme sacrifice while on a UN mission. Despite these unfortunate incidents, India, as a responsible member of the international community, remains firmly committed to UN peacekeeping efforts in order to further establish peace and security around the world. I want to thank the Government of India for its support and, of course, for the sacrifices it has made. Over 100 Indian soldiers and police officers have paid with their lives while participating in our operations and we are very grateful for that sacrifice made by Indian personnel in the pursuit of the cause of peace. It is because of such genuine and selfless contribution to world peace that India's relations with the UN have been strong and are becoming even stronger with each passing day. India is proud to remain sensitive and responsive to the needs of world peace. It is always prepared to contribute selflessly and generously to UN peace initiatives in order to make the world a better and safer place in times to come.